Movable component for a network system

ABSTRACT

The movable component for a network system may communicate with another component. The movable component includes a body, a battery, a control unit, and a communication unit. The body includes a wheel for moving, and a motor driving the wheel. The battery supplies a power to the motor. The communication unit communicates with the other component to receive information related to energy. The control unit determines whether to charge the battery based on the information related to energy.

This application claims the benefit of priority of PCT Application No.PCT/US2011/025235 filed on Feb. 17, 2011, PCT Application No.PCT/KR2010/002852 filed on May 5, 2010, PCT Application No.PCT/KR2010/002851 filed on May 5, 2010 PCT Application No.PCT/KR2010/003750 filed on Jun. 10, 2010, PCT Application No.PCT/IB2010/003388 filed on Nov. 26, 2010, Korean Application No.10-2010-0014151 filed on Feb. 17, 2010 and Korean Application No.10-2010-0091487 filed on Sep. 17, 2010, all of which are incorporated byreference in their entirety herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a movable component for a networksystem.

BACKGROUND ART

Providers simply provided an energy source such as electricity, water orgas, and customers simply used the energy source provided from theproviders. As a result, it was difficult to perform effective managementin view of energy production, energy distribution, energy usage, or thelike. Therefore, it is required to develop a network system foreffectively managing energy.

SUMMARY

Embodiments provide a movable component for a network system, which caneffectively manage an energy source.

In one embodiment, a movable component for a network system whichcommunicates with another component, comprises: a body comprising awheel to move; a motor to drive the wheel; a battery to supply a powerto at least the motor; a communication unit to communicate with anothercomponent, the communication unit to receive information related toenergy; and a control unit to receive the information related to theenergy from the communication unit, where the control unit determineswhether to charge the battery based on the information related toenergy.

According to the embodiments, an energy source effectively produces,uses, distributes, stores and the like, so that it is possible toperform the effective management of the energy source.

According to the embodiments, a battery of a movable component can becharged in a state where low-cost information has been recognized, andthus the charging cost of the battery can be saved.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing an example of a network systemaccording to the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing an example of thenetwork system according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of information transmissionprocess on the network system according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the communication structure oftwo components that constitute the network system according to a firstembodiment.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the detailed configuration of acommunication device that constitutes a communication unit according tothe first embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a communication performing process between aspecific component and a communication device according to the firstembodiment.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a communication performing process between aspecific component and a communication device according to a secondembodiment.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the communication structure of componentsthat constitute the network system according to a third embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing the detailed configuration of a firstcomponent in FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the communication structure of componentsthat constitute the network system according to a fourth embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the detailed configuration of a firstcomponent in FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of home area network whichconfigures a network system according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating an example of an energyconsumption component which may be used in a home area network accordingto the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating an example where a energycharger is connected to a network.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a charging method of a robot cleaneraccording to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a charging method of a robot cleaneraccording to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a charging method of a robot cleaneraccording to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating another example of the home areanetwork which configures the network system according to the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram illustrating a movable power supply which maybe used in the home area network according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of the movablepower supply of FIG. 18 according to an embodiment.

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a charging state and power supplyingstate of the movable power supply according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Reference will now be made in detail to the embodiments of the presentdisclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanyingdrawings.

FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing an example of a network systemaccording to the present disclosure.

The network system is a system for managing an energy source such aselectricity, water or gas. The energy source means one of which amountgenerated or used can be metered. Therefore, even a source not mentionedabove may be used as the energy source. Hereinafter, electricity will bedescribed as an example of the energy source, and details of thisspecification may be identically applied to other energy sources.

Referring to FIG. 1, a network system according to an embodimentincludes a power plant for producing electricity. The power plant mayinclude a power plant for producing electricity through a thermal powergeneration or nuclear power generation and a power plant using waterpower, sunlight power, wind power or the like which is eco-friendlyenergy.

The electricity produced in the power plant is transmitted to asub-control center through a power transmission line, and thesub-control center transmits the electricity to a substation so that theelectricity is distributed to customers such as houses or offices.

Electricity produced by the eco-friendly energy is also transmitted tothe substation so as to be distributed to each of the customers. Theelectricity transmitted from the substation is distributed to each ofthe offices or houses through electricity power storage, or is directlydistributed to each of the offices or houses.

In a house using a home area network (HAN), electricity may be producedby itself through sunlight, fuel cells built in a plug-in hybridelectric vehicle (PHEV), or the like. Also, the produced electricity maybe stored or distributed, or surplus electricity may be resold to theoutside world.

The network system may include a smart meter for detecting the amount ofelectricity used in each customer (house, office or the like) in realtime, and an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) for metering theamount of electricity used in a plurality of customers.

The network system may further include an energy management system (EMS)for managing energy. The EMS may generate information on operations ofone or more components with respect to energy (production of energy,distribution of energy, usage of energy, storage of energy, and thelike). The EMS may generate at least a command for the operations of thecomponents.

In this specification, a function or solution performed by the EMS maybe referred to as an energy management function or energy managementsolution.

In the network system, one or more EMSs may be provided as a separateconfiguration, or the EMS may be included as an energy managementfunction or energy management solution in one or more components.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing an example of thenetwork system according to the present disclosure.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the network system according to the presentdisclosure is configured by a plurality of components. For example, thecomponents of the network system are a power plant, a substation, asub-control center, an EMS, electric home appliances, a smart meter, astorage battery, a web server, an AMI, a home server, and the like.

In the present disclosure, each of the components may be configured by aplurality of sub-components. As an example, in a case of one componentis an electric home appliance, sub-components may be a microcomputer(MICOM), a heater, a display and the like. That is, all that perform aspecific function may be components in the present disclosure, and suchcomponents constitute the network system of the present disclosure. Twocomponents may communicate with each other by means of a communicationunit. One network may be one component or may be configured by aplurality of components.

In this specification, the network system in which communicationinformation is related to an energy source may be referred to as anenergy grid.

A network system according to an embodiment may include a utility areanetwork (UAN) 10 and a home area network (HAN) 20. The UAN 10 and theHAN 20 may perform wired or wireless communication by means of acommunication unit, and may perform two-way communication.

In this specification, the term “home” means not only a household as alexical meaning but also a group in which specific components such asbuildings or companies gather. Also, the term “utility” means a group inwhich specific components outside the home gather.

The UAN 10 includes an energy generation component 11 for generatingenergy, an energy distribution component 12 for distributing ortransmitting energy, an energy storage component 13 for storing energy,an energy management component 14 for managing energy, and an energymetering component 15 for metering information related to energy.

In a case where one or more components that constitute the UAN 10consume energy, the components that consume the energy may be energyconsumption components.

The energy consumption component is a component corresponding to theenergy consumption component 26 that constitutes the HAN 20. The energyconsumption component may be the same component as the energyconsumption component 26 or may be another component distinguished fromthe energy consumption component 26.

The energy generation component 11 may be a power plant as an example.The energy distribution component 12 distributes or transmits energygenerated in the energy generation component 11 and/or energy stored inthe energy storage component 13 to the energy consumption component 26that consumes the energy. The energy distribution component 12 may be apower transmitter, substation, sub-control center, or the like.

The energy storage component 13 may be a storage battery, and the energymanagement component 14 generates information for driving one or more ofthe energy generation component 11, the energy distribution component12, the energy storage component 13 and the energy consumption component26, related to energy. The energy management component 14 may generateat least a command for the operation of a specific component.

The energy management component 14 may be an EMS. The energy meteringcomponent 15 may meter information related to the generation of energy,the distribution of energy, the usage of energy, the storage of energy,and the like. The energy metering component 15 may be an AMI as anexample. The energy management component 14 may be a separateconfiguration, or may be included in another component as an energymanagement function.

The UAN 10 may communicate with the HAN 20 by a terminal component (notshown). That is, information generated or transferred in a specificcomponent that constitutes the UAN 10 may be transmitted to the HAN 20through the terminal component, or information generated or transferredin another component that constitutes the HAN may be received to the UAN10 through the terminal component. The terminal component may be a gateway as an example. The terminal component may be provided to one or moreof the UAN 10 and the HAN 20.

The terminal component may be a component necessary fortransmitting/receiving information between the UAN and the HAN.

Two components that constitute the UAN 10 may communicate with eachother by means of a communication unit.

The HAN 20 includes an energy generation component 21 for generatingenergy, an energy distribution component 22 for distributing energy, anenergy storage component 23 for storing energy, an energy managementcomponent 24 for managing energy, an energy metering component 25 formetering information related to energy, an energy consumption component26 for consuming energy, a central management component 27 forcontrolling a plurality of components, and an energy grid assistancecomponent 28.

The energy generation component 21 may be a home power generator, andthe energy storage component 23 may be a storage battery. The energymanagement component 24 may be an EMS. As an example, the energygeneration component 21 may be a solar cell, a fuel cell, a wind powergenerator, a power generator using subterranean heat, a power generatorusing seawater, or the like.

The energy storage component 23 may perform storage using energygenerated from the energy generation component 21. Therefore, in view ofthe use of energy, the energy storage component 23 and the energygeneration component 11 may be an energy using component that usesenergy together with the energy consumption component 26. That is, theenergy using component may include at least an energy consumptioncomponent, an energy generation component and an energy storagecomponent. In a case where the energy management component uses energy,it may be included in the energy using component.

In view of the supplied energy, the energy storage component 23, theenergy consumption component and the energy generation component 11 maybe an energy supplied component to which energy is supplied.

The energy metering component 25 may meter information related to thegeneration of energy, the distribution of energy, the usage of energy,the storage of energy, and the like. The energy metering component 25may be a smart meter as an example. The energy consumption component 26may be, as an example, an electric home appliance or a heater, motor,display or the like, which constitutes the electric home appliance. Inthis embodiment, there is no limitation in the kind of the energyconsumption component 26.

Specifically, the energy generation component 21 may be anothercomponent of the UAN 10, which generates energy to be supplied to theHAN 20.

The energy management component 24 may be provided as a separateconfiguration or may be included in another component as an energymanagement function. As an example, the energy management function maybe performed by a control component that controls the energy consumptioncomponent. In a case where the control component performs the energymanagement function, it may be an energy management component.

Specifically, the energy management component 14 that constitutes theUAN 10 or the energy management component 24 that constitutes the HAN 20may be built in one or more of the plurality of components thatconstitute the networks 10 and 20, or may exist as a separate device.The energy management component 24 may recognize the information relatedto energy (energy information) and the state information of a componentcontrolled by the energy management component 24.

The energy generation component 21, the energy distribution component 22and the energy storage component 23 may be individual components, or mayconstitute a single component.

The central management component 27 may be, as an example, a home serverfor controlling a plurality of electric home appliances.

The energy grid assistance component 28 is a component having a primaryfunction while performing an additional function for the energy grid.For example, the energy grid assistance component 28 may be a webservice providing component (e.g., a computer or the like), mobiledevice, television, or the like.

The mobile device may receive energy information or additionalinformation (described later), and control the operation of at least theenergy consumption component 26 using the received information.

Two components that constitute the HAN 20 may communicate with eachother by means of a communication unit.

The energy generation components 11 and 21, the energy distributioncomponents 12 and 22, the energy storage components 13 and 23, theenergy management components 14 and 24, the energy metering components15 and 25, the energy consumption component 26 and the centralmanagement component 27 may independently exist, or two or more of themmay constitute a single component.

For example, the energy management component 14 or 24, the energymetering component 15 or 25 and the central management component 27 mayexist as single components so as to be configured as a smart meter, anEMS and a home server, which perform their functions, respectively.Alternatively, the energy management component 14 or 24, the energymetering component 15 or 25 and the central management component 27 mayconstitute a single system.

When a function is performed, it may be sequentially performed in aplurality of components and/or communication units. For example, anenergy management function may be sequentially performed in the energymanagement component, the energy metering component and the energyconsumption component.

In the network system, a plurality of UANs 10 may communicate with asingle HAN 20, and a single UAN 10 may communicate with a plurality ofHANs 20.

The component with a specific function, which constitutes the UAN andthe HAN, may be configured as a plurality of components. For example,the energy generation component, the energy consumption component or thelike may be configured as a plurality of components.

In this specification, each of the components that constitute the UANand HAN may having a function performing component that performs its ownfunction, or each of the components itself may be a function performingcomponent.

As an example, in a case where the energy consumption component is anelectric product, the electric product has a function performingcomponent such as a heater, compressor, motor or display. As anotherexample, in a case where the energy consumption component is a heater,compressor, motor, display or the like, the energy consumption componentitself is a function performing component.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of information transmissionprocess on the network system according to the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 3, in the network system according to the presentdisclosure, a specific component 30 may receive information related toenergy (hereinafter, referred to as energy information 40) by means of acommunication unit. The specific component 30 may further receiveadditional information (environment information, time information andthe like) by means of the communication unit. In this instance, theinformation may be received from another component. That is, at leastenergy information is contained in the received information.

The specific component 30 may be a component that constitutes the UAN 10or a component that constitutes the HAN 20.

As described above, the energy information 40 may be one of informationrelated to electricity, water, gas and the like. Hereinafter,information related to electricity will be described as an example ofthe energy information, but information related to other energy sourcesmay be identically applied.

For example, the kind of information related to the electricity mayinclude time-based pricing, curtailment, grid emergency, gridreliability, energy increment, operation priority, and the like.

The information may be divided into scheduled information previouslyproduced based on previous information, and real-time informationchanged in real time. The scheduled information and the real-timeinformation may be divided by whether or not predict information afterthe current time (in the future).

The energy information 40 may be transmitted/received as a true or falsesignal such as a Boolean signal on the network system, or may betransmitted/received as a real price. Alternatively, the energyinformation 40 may be transmitted/received by being divided into aplurality of levels.

The energy information 40 may be divided into time of use (TOU)information, critical peak pattern (CPP) information or real timepattern (RTP) information according to the change in the pattern of datawith respect to time.

According to the TOU information, a data is changed step by stepdepending on time. According to the CPP information, a data is changedstep by step or in real time depending on time, and emphasis isdisplayed at a specific point of time. According to RTP information, adata is changed in real time depending on time.

In a case where the energy information is time-based pricing informationas an example, the time-based pricing information is changed. Thetime-based pricing information may be transmitted/received as a true orfalse signal such as a Boolean signal on the network system, or may betransmitted/received as a real price. Alternatively, the time-basedpricing information may be transmitted/received by being divided into aplurality of levels.

In a case where the specific component 30 receives a true or falsesignal such as a Boolean signal, one signal may be recognized as anon-peak signal, and the other signal may be recognized as an off-peaksignal.

Alternatively, the specific component 30 may recognize information on atleast one drive, which contains the time-based information, and mayrecognize an on-peak or off-peak signal by comparing the value of therecognized information with the value of reference information.

For example, in a case where the specific component recognizesinformation divided into levels or real pricing information, itrecognizes an on-peak or off-peak signals by comparing the value of therecognized information with the value of reference information.

In this case, the value of the information on drive may be at least oneof time-based pricing, electric energy, the variation of time-basedpricing, the variation of electric energy, the average of time-basedpricing and the average of electric energy. The value of referenceinformation may be at least one of an average, the average betweenmaximum and minimum values of power information during a predeterminedperiod of time and the reference variation of power information duringthe predetermined period of time (e.g., the slope of consumed electricenergy per unit time).

The value of reference information may be determined in real time or maybe previously determined. The value of reference information may bedetermined on the UAN or may be determined on the HAN (a customer'sdirect input or an input from the energy management component, thecentral management component or the like).

In a case where the specific component 30 (e.g., the energy consumptioncomponent) recognizes an on-peak signal (e.g., at a point of time ofrecognition), an output may be determined as zero (stop or maintenanceof a stop state) or may be decreased. If necessary, the output may berestored or increased. The driving scheme of the specific component maybe previously determined before the specific component is operated, ormay be changed when the specific component recognizes an on-peak signalposterior to the start of operation.

Alternatively, in a case where the specific component 30 recognizes anon-peak signal (e.g., at a point of time of recognition), the output ismaintained under an operable condition. In this case, the operablecondition means that the value of the information on drive is less thana predetermined reference. The value of the information on drive may betime-based pricing, consumed electric energy, operation time, or thelike. The predetermined reference may be a relative or absolute value.

The predetermined reference may be determined in real time or may bepreviously determined. The predetermined reference may be determined onthe UAN or may be determined on the HAN (a customer's direct input or aninput from the energy management component, the central managementcomponent or the like).

Alternatively, in a case where the specific component recognizeshigh-cost information, the output of the specific component may bemaintained or increased when the difference between a state informationvalue and a reference value is within a predetermined range. Forexample, in a case where a compressor of a refrigerator is not operatedin a low-cost period, the temperature of a cool chamber or freezingchamber is increased. Therefore, the compressor is necessarily turned onwhen the temperature of the cool chamber or freezing chamber approachesa reference temperature. In a case where a high-cost period comes afterthe compressor is turned on, the compressor maintains a current outputwhen the difference between the temperature of the cool chamber orfreezing chamber and the reference temperature is within a predeterminedrange. In a case where a user selects a button for cancelling powersaving in the state that the specific component 30 recognizes thehigh-cost information, the output of the specific component may bemaintained.

Alternatively, in a case where the specific component 30 recognizes anon-peak signal (e.g., at a point of time of recognition), the output maybe increased. However, although the output is increased at the point oftime when the specific component recognizes the on-peak signal, thetotal output amount of the specific component during the entire driveperiod may be decreased or maintained as compared with that when thespecific component is operated at a normal output level. Alternatively,although the output is increased at the point of time when the specificcomponent recognizes the on-peak signal, the total consumed power ortotal time-based pricing of the specific component during the entireoperation period may be decreased as compared that when the specificcomponent is operated at a normal output level.

In a case where the specific component 30 recognizes an off-peak signal(e.g., at a point of time of recognition), the output may be increased.For example, in a case where the operation reservation of the specificcomponent is set up, the drive of the specific component may be startedbefore the setup time, or a component having a large output among aplurality of components may be first driven. In a case where thespecific component is a refrigerator, supercooling may be performed byincreasing an output as compared with the existing output (change in thestate of cool air that is a medium for performing the function of therefrigerator). In a case where the specific component is a washingmachine or washer, hot water may be stored by driving a heater earlierthan the time when the heater is to be operated (storage of hot waterthat is an additional medium for performing the function of the washingmachine or washer). Alternatively, in a case where the specificcomponent is a refrigerator, cool air may be stored in a separatesupercooling chamber by increasing an output as compared with theexisting output. Alternatively, in a case where the specific componentrecognizes an off-peak signal (e.g., at a point of time of recognition),electricity may be stored.

The curtailment information is information related to a mode in whichthe specific component is stopped or a small amount of time-basedpricing is taken. As an example, the curtailment information may betransmitted/received as a true or false signal such as a Boolean signalon the network system.

If the specific component 30 recognizes curtailment information, theoutput may be determined as zero (stop or maintenance of a stop state)or may be decreased as described above.

The grid emergency information is information related to a power failureor the like. As an example, the grid emergency information may betransmitted/received as a true or false signal such as a Boolean signalon the network system. The information related to a power failure or thelike has a relation with the reliability of a component using energy.

In a case where the specific component 30 recognizes grid emergencyinformation, it may be immediately shut down.

The grid reliability information is information related to the supplyamount of electricity supplied or information related to the quality ofelectricity. The grid reliability information may betransmitted/received as a true or false signal such as a Boolean signalon the network system, or may be determined by a component (e.g., anelectric home appliance) through the frequency of AC power supplied tothe component.

That is, if a frequency lower than the frequency of AC power supplied tothe component is sensed, it may be determined that the amount ofelectricity supplied is small (information on the deficiency of theamount of electricity supplied). If a frequency higher than thefrequency of AC power supplied to the component is sensed, it may bedetermined that the amount of electricity supplied is large (informationon the excess of the amount of electricity supplied).

In a case where the specific component recognizes shortage of the amountof electricity or poor quality of electricity in the grid reliabilityinformation, an output may be determined as zero (stop or maintenance ofa stop state) or may be decreased. If necessary, the output may berestored or increased.

On the other hand, in a case where the specific component recognizes theinformation on the excess of the amount of electricity supplied, theoutput may be increased, or the operation may be converted from anoff-state to an on-state.

The energy increment information is information related to a state thatsurplus electricity is generated because the amount of electricity usedby a component is less than that of power generation. As an example, theenergy increment information may be transmitted/received as a true orfalse signal such as a Boolean signal on the network system.

In a case where the specific component 30 recognizes energy incrementinformation, the output may be increased. For example, in a case wherethe operation reservation of the specific component is set up, the driveof the specific component may be started before the setup time, or acomponent having a large output among a plurality of components may befirst driven. In a case where the specific component is a refrigerator,supercooling may be performed by increasing an output as compared withthe existing output. In a case where the specific component is a washingmachine or a washer, hot water may be stored by driving a heater earlierthan the time when the heater is to be operated. Alternatively, in acase where the specific component recognizes an off-peak signal (e.g.,at a point of time of recognition), electricity may be stored.

Meanwhile, in a case where the specific component 30 is the energystorage component 13 or 23, the energy storage component 13 or 23 maystore electricity by receiving the electricity supplied from the UAN,for example, when electricity storage cost is smaller than apredetermined value.

However, in a case where the energy storage component 23 is connected tothe energy generation component 21 that constitutes the HAN, it maycontinuously store energy generated by the energy generation component21 until the electricity storage is completed. That is, the energygenerated while the energy generation component 21 generates energy maybe stored in the energy storage component 23.

The presence of completion of the electricity storage is determinedwhile the energy storage component 13 or 23 stores electricity. In acase where the electricity storage is completed, the electricity supplyfor the electricity storage is cut off. Specifically, the presence ofcompletion of the electricity storage may be determined using a sensorthat senses the voltage, temperature or current of the energy storagecomponent 13 or 23. The cutoff of the electricity supply may beperformed using a switch (or circuit breaker) provided to a supply stagethrough which the electricity is supplied to the energy storage unit 13or 23.

The electricity storage cost may be cost consumed in the electricitystorage for a specific time period or electricity cost at a specifictime.

As an example, in a case where the electricity storage cost is in anoff-peak period (in a case where the specific component recognizeslow-cost information which will be described later), the energy storagecomponent 13 or 23 may store electricity. Alternatively, in a case wherean on-peak period corresponds to an allowance period (in a case wherethe specific component recognizes high-cost information which will bedescribed later), the energy storage component 13 or 23 may store in theon-peak period. In this instance, the allowance period is a period inwhich a power consumption information value is less than a predeterminedreference. The power consumption information value may be an electricitycost, a power consumption amount, a time range, or the like. Thepredetermined reference may be a predetermined cost, a predeterminedpower consumption amount, a predetermined time, or the like. As anexample, the energy storage components 13 and 23 may store electricitywhen the on-peak period is equal to or less than a certain time or thepower usage cost is equal to or less than a certain cost in the on-peakperiod. The predetermined reference may be a relative value or absolutevalue, and may be changed automatically or manually.

The energy storage component 13 or 23 may store a counter electromotiveforce generated when an energy consumption component that is rotatablyoperated or a motor provided to the energy consumption component isstopped (rotated).

Alternatively, the energy storage component 13 or 23 may storeelectricity using an energy consumption component that is rotatablyoperated or a motor provided to the energy consumption component. Forexample, in a case where the energy consumption component is arefrigerator, the energy storage component 13 or 23 may storeelectricity generated when a fan motor provided to the refrigerator isrotated (the fan motor may serve as a power generator or may beconnected to the power generator). Alternatively, in a case where theenergy consumption component is a washing machine, the energy storagecomponent 13 or 23 may store electricity generated when a motor thatrotates a drum for accommodating the laundry is rotated. In a case wherethe energy consumption component is a cooking appliance, the energystorage component 13 or 23 may store electricity generated when a motorfor rotating a cooling fan is rotated. In a case where the energyconsumption component is an air cleaner, the energy storage component 13or 23 may store electricity generated when a motor for rotating a fan isrotated. That is, in this embodiment, in a case where a motor isprovided regardless of the kind of the energy consumption component, theenergy storage component 13 or 23 may store electricity generated whenthe motor is rotated. As an example, the energy storage components 13and 23 may not store electricity when a time in the off-peak period isequal to or less than a certain time. Alternatively, in a case where apower generator is connected to a fan rotated by the flow of air(natural flow or forcible flow), the energy storage component 13 or 23may store electricity generated by the power generator.

The electricity stored in the energy component 13 or may be supplied toone or more energy consumption components 26. In a case whereelectricity cost is higher than a reference value, the electricitystored in the energy component 13 or 23 may be supplied to the energyconsumption component 26. As an example, in a case where the electricitycost is an on-peak (in a case where the specific component recognizesthe high-cost information), the electricity stored in the energy storagecomponent 13 or 23 may be supplied to the energy consumption component26. In a case where the electricity cost is an off-peak (in a case wherethe specific component recognizes the low-cost information) but is closeto the on-peak, the electricity stored in the energy storage component13 or 21 may be supplied to the energy consumption component. If theelectricity stored in the energy storage component 13 or 23 is less thana predetermined value, electricity generated in the energy generationcomponent 11 is supplied to the energy consumption component. Thus, itis possible to prevent the operation of the energy consumption componentfrom being stopped due to the cutoff of the electricity supply while theenergy consumption component is operated.

In a case where the supply of electricity generated in the energygeneration component 11 is cut off by interruption of electric power,the electricity stored in the energy component 13 or 23 may be suppliedto the energy consumption component. In a case where the energyconsumption component is an electric product, the electricity stored inthe energy storage component 13 or 23 may be supplied to a communicationunit or control unit provided to the electric product.

The electricity stored in the energy component 13 or 23 may be suppliedto a portion of a plurality of energy consumption components. As anexample, the stored electricity may be supplied to an electric productsuch as a refrigerator required in continuous operation among aplurality of electric products. Alternatively, the stored electricitymay be supplied to an energy consumption component with relatively lowpower among a plurality of energy consumption components that constituteone electric product. It will be apparent that the stored electricity issupplied to an energy consumption component with high power.Alternatively, when a course using a relatively small amount of power isperformed among a plurality of courses in which an electric product isperformed, the stored electricity may be supplied. It will be apparentthat the stored electricity may be supplied even when a course using alarge amount of power is performed.

Meanwhile, in a case where electricity is generated and stored by a fanor motor as described above, the electricity stored in the energystorage component 13 or 23 may be supplied to an energy consumption unitwith relatively low power. As an example, the electricity stored in theenergy storage component 13 or 23 may be supplied to an LED lamp, adisplay, a control unit, a communication unit, a low-power heater, orthe like. Alternatively, in a case where the energy consumptioncomponent performs a plurality of courses, the electricity stored in theenergy storage component 13 or 23 may be supplied to the energyconsumption component in a course that requires low power.

The energy storage component 23 may be built in connected to one energyconsumption component. Alternatively, a plurality of energy storagecomponents 23 may be built in or connected to a plurality of energyconsumption components, respectively. Alternatively, a plurality ofenergy storage components 23 may be built in or connected to one energyconsumption component. The plurality of energy storage components 23 maybe connected to one another to share the stored electricity.

Among the information related to energy, the on-peak information, thecurtailment information and information on the deficiency of the amountof electricity supplied may be recognized as high-cost informationconsidered that energy cost is relatively expensive. In this instance,the period in which the high-cost information is recognized by thespecific component may referred to as a low-cost period.

On the other hand, among the information related to energy, the off-peakinformation, the energy increment information and the information on theexcess of the amount of electricity supplied may be recognized aslow-cost information considered that energy cost is relatively cheap. Inthis instance, the period in which the low-cost information isrecognized by the specific component may be referred to as a low-costperiod.

The information related to the fluctuation of the energy cost (high-costor low-cost information) may be recognized as information fordetermining a power saving driving scheme of the specific component(e.g., the energy consumption component). That is, the informationrelated to the fluctuation of the energy cost may be recognized bydividing a time slot (time period) based on energy cost or pricingperiod (pricing zone) for determining a driving scheme of the specificcomponent into at least two or more.

A high period means a high price time period (period of high cost) or ahigh pricing period and a low period means a low price time period(period of low cost) and a low pricing period.

As an example, in a case where the information related to energy isrecognized as a Boolean signal, the time slot (time period) based onenergy cost or pricing period (pricing zone) for determining a drivingscheme of the specific component may be divided into two. In a casewhere the information related to energy is divided into a plurality oflevels or recognized as real-time information, the time period orpricing period may be divided into three or more.

Meanwhile, the information related to energy cost corresponding to atleast time may be recognized as information for determining a powersaving driving scheme of the specific component. That is, theinformation related to energy cost may be recognized by dividing a timeslot (time period) or pricing zone (time period) into at least two ormore. As described above, the divided time period or pricing period maybe determined based on the kinds of the recognized information (theboolean signal, the plurality of levels and the real-time information).

In other words, the information related to fluctuation of energy costmay be recognized by dividing a determination factor for driving thespecific component into two or more, and functions on time and energycost may be included in the determination factor.

In a case where the information related to energy cost is divided intotwo levels or more, the driving scheme of the specific component may bedetermined according to the information divided into levels.

On the other hand, in a case where the recognized information related toenergy cost is not divided based on a specific reference (e.g.,real-time cost information), it is compared with predeterminedinformation, and the driving scheme of the specific component may bedetermined based on the compared result.

Herein, the predetermined information may be reference information (e.g.reference value) for dividing the information related to energy cost,and the compared result may be whether not the information related toenergy cost is more or less than the reference value.

Specifically, each of the kinds of information related to energy may bedivided into first information 41 that is raw information, secondinformation 42 that is refined information, and third information 43that is information for performing the function of the specificcomponent. That is, the first information is a raw data, the secondinformation is a refined data, and the third information is a commandfor performing the function of the specific component.

The information related to energy is included a signal, and the signalis transmitted. In this instance, one or more of the first to thirdinformation may be transmitted several times while the content of theinformation is not converted but only the signal including theinformation is converted.

For example, as shown in FIG. 3, a component that receives a signalincluding the first information may convert only the signal and transmita new signal including the first information to another component.

Therefore, it is described in this embodiment that the conversion ofsignal is a different concept from the conversion of information. Inthis instance, it can be readily understood that when the firstinformation is converted into the second information, the signalincluding the first information is also converted into the signalincluding the second information.

However, the third information may be transmitted several times in thestate that the content of the third information is converted or in thestate that only the signal including the third information is convertedwhile the content of the third information is identically maintained.

Specifically, in a case where the first information is raw informationon time-based pricing, the second information may be refined informationon the time-based pricing. The refined information on the time-basedpricing is information in which the time-based pricing is divided into aplurality of levels or analysis information. The third information is acommand generated based on the second information.

The specific component may generate, transmit or receive one or more ofthe first to third information. The first to third information are notnecessarily transmitted or received in sequence. Only a plurality ofpieces of third information without the first and second information maybe transmitted in sequence or parallel. Alternatively, the first andthird information may be transmitted or received together, the secondand third information may be transmitted or received together, or thefirst and second information may be transmitted or received together.

As an example, in a case where the specific component receives the firstinformation, it may transmit the second information or may transmit thesecond and third information.

In a case where the specific information receives only the thirdinformation, it may generate and transmit new third information.

Meanwhile, in the relation between two pieces of information, one is amessage and the other is a response for the message. Thus, each of thecomponents that constitute the network system may transmit or receive amessage. In a case where each of the components receives a message, itmay respond to the message. Therefore, in the case of an individualcomponent, the transmission of a message is a relative concept with theresponse for the message.

The message may include a data (first or second information) and/or acommand (third information).

The command (third information) may include a command for storing thedata, a command for generating the data, a command for processing thedata (including the generation of an additional data), a command forgenerating an additional command, a command for transmitting theadditionally generated command, a command for transmitting a receivedcommand, and the like.

In this specification, the response for the received message meansstorage of the data, processing of the data (including generation of anadditional data), generation of a new command, transmission of the newlygenerated command, simple transmission of a received command (includinggeneration of a command for transmitting the received command to anothercomponent), operation, transmission of the stored information,transmission of an acknowledge message (acknowledge character ornegative acknowledge character), or the like.

For example, in a case where the message is first information, thespecific component that receives the first information may generatesecond information by processing the first information, or may generatethe second information and new third information, as a response for themessage.

The specific component that receives the message may provide a responserelated to energy. Herein, the term “response” may be understood as aconcept including an operation through which the specific component canperform a function. As an example, the HAN 20 may perform an operationrelated to energy by receiving a message.

The response (operation) related to energy, provided by the specificcomponent, will be described in detail. For example, the specificcomponent may be an energy consumption component.

The energy consumption component may be driven so that the energy costwhen it is driven based on the recognition for energy information isreduced as compared with that when it is driven without the recognitionfor energy information.

The specific component may include a plurality of modes in which it isdriven to perform its own function. The plurality of modes are a firstmode and a second mode in which energy cost is relatively saved ascompared with that in the first mode. The specific component may bedriven in at least one of the first and second modes.

Herein, the first mode may be a general mode and the second mode may bea power saving mode. Alternatively, the first and second modes may allbe power saving modes.

The general mode may be understood as a mode in which the function ofthe specific component is performed without recognition of energyinformation. On the other hand, the power saving mode may be understoodas a mode in which the function of the specific component is performedbased on the recognition of energy information so as to save energycost.

In a case where the first and second modes are power saving modes, thefirst mode may be specified as a driving scheme for saving energy costand the second mode may be specified as a driving scheme in which theenergy cost in the second mode is more saved than that in the firstmode.

Meanwhile, in a case where the specific component (e.g., the energyconsumption component) is driven, at least a portion is recognized in adriving scheme including at least drive time and course. In this case,an unrecognized portion may be generated so as to save energy cost, anda recognized portion may be converted into another scheme.

For example, at least a portion of the driving scheme may be recognizedunder the control of the energy management component, the control of theenergy consumption component, or the like. In a case where a specificdriving scheme is further required so as to save energy cost, anunrecognized portion of the driving scheme may be newly generated, and arecognized portion may be converted into another scheme so as to saveenergy.

It will be apparent that the process of generating the unrecognizedportion may be omitted. In this case, the process of converting therecognized portion into another scheme. On the other hand, the processof converting the recognized portion into another scheme may be omitted.In this case, the process of newly generating the unrecognized portionmay be performed.

The drive time may include a drive start time or drive end time. Thecourse may include a drive period of the specific component and thepower of the specific component.

The generated scheme or converted scheme may be a scheme recommended bythe specific component so as to save energy cost. Herein, the specificcomponent may be an energy consumption component (control component) orthe energy management component.

As an example, in a case where the recognized scheme is a specific drivetime, the specific drive time may be converted into another time so asto save energy cost, and a specific course may be generated.

On the other hand, in a case where the recognized scheme is a specificcourse, the specific course may be converted into another course so asto save energy cost, and a specific time may be generated.

Under the control described above, a change in time or power may be madewith respect to the output function of the specific component based ontime.

The generated scheme or converted scheme may be performed within a setrange. That is, in the process of recognizing at least a portion of thedriving scheme, the generation or conversion of the driving scheme maybe performed within a predetermined reference in which the recognizedportion appears (e.g., restriction set by a user, constraint set underthe control of the energy management component or energy consumptioncomponent, or the like).

Therefore, in a case where the set range is out of the predeterminedreference, it is restricted to generate the unrecognized portion or toconvert the recognized portion into another scheme.

Another embodiment is proposed.

Cost information may further included in the recognized driving scheme.That is, in a case where the cost information is recognized, a portionrelated to the drive time or course may be generated. The generateddriving scheme may be recommended.

Meanwhile, a response of the specific component based on the informationrelated to the fluctuation of the energy cost (high-cost or low-costinformation), e.g., a power control for power saving driving, may beperformed. An output decrease (including an output of zero) or outputincrease may be included in the output control.

It is as described above that the output is decreased or zero,maintained or increased based on the recognition for the information(on-peak or off-peak) related to energy cost.

If high-cost information is recognized, the output may be zero ordecreased. Specifically, the output in the recognition of the high-costinformation may be decreased as compared with that in the recognition oflow-cost information. As described above, the decrease of the output maybe previously determined before the specific component is operated, ormay be changed when the high-cost information is recognized posterior tothe start of the operation of the specific component.

In a case where the output of the specific component is zero ordecreased, the function to be performed by the specific component may belost as compared with a normal case. Therefore, a response for restoringthe lost function may be performed.

As an example, after the output of the specific component is decreased,the specific component may be controlled so that the total operationtime of the specific component is increased or so that the output isincreased in at least a time period.

In other words, if specific reference information related to energyinformation is recognized in a period after the output of the specificcomponent is controlled, the response for controlling the output may bereleased. Herein, the term “period” may be divided based on a point oftime when the high-cost information is recognized.

The total operation time may be understood as a time approaching aspecific target in the process of performing the function of thespecific component. As an example, in a case where the specificcomponent is an electric appliance (washing machine, drying machine,cooking appliance or the like) intermittently driven (or driven in aspecific course), the total operation time may be understood as a timeuntil a corresponding course is completed.

On the other hand, in a case where the specific component is an electricappliance (refrigerator, water purifier, or the like) driven at normaltimes, the total operation time may be understood as a time approachinga target set for performing the function of the specific component. Forexample, the set target may be a target temperature, a target amount ofice produced, or a target amount of clean water in the refrigerator.

The total operation time may be increased as compared with the operationtime set before the output of the specific component is decreased. In acase where the output of the specific component is not decreased, thetotal operation time may be increased as compared with the operationtime of the specific component. However, although the total operationtime of the specific component is increased, the specific component iscontrolled so that the total energy cost generated through the drive ofthe specific component can be saved as compared with that when theoutput of the specific component is not decreased.

If the high-cost information is recognized, the output of the specificcomponent may be increased.

However, although the output is increased at a point of time when thehigh-cost information is recognized, the total output of the specificcomponent during the entire driving period may be decreased ormaintained as compared with that when the specific component is operatedunder a normal output. Alternatively, although the output is increasedat a point of time when the high-cost information is recognized, thetotal power consumption or total time-based pricing of the specificcomponent during the entire driving period may be decreased as comparedwith that when the specific component is operated under the normaloutput.

If the low-cost information is recognized, the output of the specificcomponent may be increased. For example, in a case where the operationreservation of the specific component is set up, the driving of thespecific component may be started before the setup time, or a componenthaving a large output in a plurality of components may be first driven.In a case where the specific component is a refrigerator, supercoolingmay be performed by increasing an output as compared with the existingoutput. In a case where the specific component is a washing machine or awasher, hot water may be stored by driving a heater earlier than thetime when the heater is to be operated. Alternatively, in a case wherethe specific component recognizes an off-peak signal (e.g., at a pointof time of recognition), electricity may be stored.

Meanwhile, in a case of a specific condition (additional condition) isgenerated based on the information related to the fluctuation of theenergy cost (high-cost or low-cost information), the response of thespecific component, e.g., the output control for power saving driving,may be limited. That is, the output of the specific component may bemaintained.

Herein, the term “limitation” may be understood as the release of theoutput control performed or not performed.

The specific condition includes a case where influence on energy cost isminute even though the output control of the specific component is notperformed or a case where it is necessary to prevent a function to beperformed by the specific component from being degraded when the outputof the specific component is controlled.

Whether or not the influence on the energy cost is minute may bedetermined based on a predetermined reference (time-based pricing, powerconsumption or information on operation time). The predeterminedreference may be a relative or absolute value.

The case where the function to be performed by the specific component isdegraded may be considered as a case where the specific component is adefrosting heater, for example.

In a case where it is controlled to decrease the output in a high-costtime period and to increase the output in the low-cost time period, thedriving of the defrosting heater is more frequently performed than thatduring a normal time (setup period). In this case, the temperature of astorage room in the refrigerator is increased, and thus, the control ofthe output can be limited.

Meanwhile, the specific component 30 may include a display unit 31 fordisplaying information. In this embodiment, the term “informationdisplay” means that visual, auditory, olfactory and tactile informationis known to the outside. The display unit 31 may include a touch screenfor selecting or inputting information. Alternatively, the specificcomponent 30 may include a separate input unit for inputting informationby cable or radio.

All the information (energy information or additional information exceptthe energy information) described above may be displayed in the displayunit 31. One of the energy information and additional information may bedisplayed, or two or more pieces of information may be simultaneouslydisplayed. That is, two or more pieces of information may besimultaneously displayed in the display unit 31. As an example, in acase where two or more pieces of information are simultaneouslydisplayed, any one of the information is selected. Then, the selectedscreen may be enlarged, and the unselected screen may reduced. Asanother example, if any one of the two or more pieces of information isselected, the selected screen may be enlarged, and the unselected screenmay disappear. In a case where specific information is selected and theselected screen is enlarged, information more specific that the previousinformation or information different from the previous information maybe displayed on the enlarged screen. For example, in a case where theselected information is a character, graphic information may bedisplayed on the enlarged screen, or two or more pieces of informationmay be sequentially displayed on the enlarged screen. In a case wheretwo or more pieces of information are displayed in the display unit 31,two or more relative positions may be varied.

Information except energy cost information and energy cost may bedisplayed in the display unit 31. The energy cost information mayinclude current cost, past cost or estimated cost in the future. Theenergy cost information may include not only information on costinformation in a specific period or time but also information on costused with respect to the operation of a component, cost used in thepresent, cost to be used (estimation cost), or the like.

The information except the energy cost information may includeinformation on energy reduction, emergency situation, grid safety, powergeneration quantity, operation priority, energy consumption, energysupply amount, information (e.g., cost change rate, average cost, levelor the like) newly generated based on two or more pieces of information(one or more pieces of energy cost information and/or information exceptthe one or more pieces of energy cost information), and the like. Inthis instance, the energy consumption may be energy consumption used twoor more HANs, and may be simultaneously or selectively displayed.

The information on energy consumption may include information on pastconsumption, current consumption and estimated consumption in thefuture. The information on energy consumption may include information onaccumulated consumption for a specific period (time), averageconsumption, increasing rate of consumption, decreasing rate ofconsumption, maximum consumption, minimum consumption, and the like.

The additional information may include one or more of environmentinformation, time information, information related to the one or morecomponents, information related to another component and informationrelated to a user using the one or more components. The environmentinformation may include one or more of information related to carbondioxide emission rate, concentration of carbon dioxide in air,temperature, humidity, precipitation, presence of rainfall, amount ofsolar radiation, amount of wind.

In addition to the information described above, information refinedbased on at least one information or newly generated information mayalso be displayed in the display unit 31.

In a case where the specific component 30 is the energy storagecomponent 13 or 23, the presence of use of the stored electricity, theremaining amount of the store electricity and the like may be displayed.If the remaining amount of the stored electricity is less than apredetermined value, alarm information may be displayed.

The information displayed in the display unit 31 may include one or moreof information on number, character, sentence, figure, shape, symbol,image and light. The information displayed in the display unit 31 mayinclude one or more of information on graph for each time or period,level, table. One or more of the shape, color, brightness, size,position, alarm period, alarm time of the information displayed in thedisplay unit 31 may be varied.

A currently operable function (or menu) may be displayed in the displayunit 31. Alternatively, among a plurality of functions, operable andinoperable function may be divided by size, color, position and thelike, and then displayed in the display unit 31. Alternatively, in acase where separate input units are provided, only input units forselecting an operable function may be activated, or an input unit forselecting an operable function and an input unit for selecting aninoperable function may be displayed in different colors.

In a home appliance including a course, the function may be the course.As an example, when the home appliance is a washing machine or a dryingmachine, a plurality of courses may be divided into an operable courseand an inoperable course.

The target or display method of information displayed in the displayunit 31 may be set and changed by a user, or may be changedautomatically.

In a case where a condition for informing the user of information issatisfied, specific information may be displayed in the display unit 31.It will be apparent that a portion of a plurality of pieces ofinformation may be continuously displayed in the state that a componentis turned on. The display time of the information may be changed or setautomatically or manually.

If specific information (one or more pieces of information) is selectedusing the input unit, the selected information may be displayed. If auser contacts a portion of a component, e.g., an input unit, a handle, adisplay or the like, regardless of information display selection, oroperates one or more buttons or knobs that constitute the input unit, aportion of the information may be displayed. In this instance, theinformation to be displayed may be set or changed. It will be apparentthat a sensing unit for sensing a user's contact may be provided to thecomponent. Alternatively, the specific information may be displayed byinstallation environment or variation of outdoor environment.Alternatively, the specific information may be displayed when thespecific component receives new information. Alternatively, the specificinformation may be displayed when the kind or state of the specificcomponent is changed. As an example, if a light emitting unit is turnedoff in an off-peak period and an on-peak period comes, the lightemitting unit may be turned on. Alternatively, the specific informationmay be automatically displayed when the operation or state of thecomponent is changed. As an example, in a case where the mode of thecomponent is changed, information related to the changed mode may beautomatically displayed.

Meanwhile, the display unit 31 may be separably connected or fixed tothe component 30. In a case where the display unit 31 is separable fromthe component 30, it may perform wired or wireless communication withthe component 30 (or control unit of the component). In a case where thedisplay unit 31 is fixed to the component 30, it may also perform wiredor wireless communication with the component 30.

In a case where the display unit 31 is separable from the component 30,a communication unit and an input unit for inputting or selectinginformation may be provided to the display unit 31. Thus, informationcan be inputted or selected through the input unit in the state that thedisplay unit 31 is separated from the component 30. The communicationunit may be provided to the component 30, and only the display unit 31may be separated from the component 30. The display unit 31 may be theenergy management component 24, the energy metering component 25 or thecentral management component 27, or may be a separate control apparatus.

In a case where the display unit 31 is provided with a communicationunit, a communication unit may also provided to the component 30. In acase where the display unit 31 and the component 30 are in the statethat they are communicated with each other and information istransmitted/receive through a communication signal, the display unit 31may be used. That is, in a case where the intensity of a signal issecured so that information can be included in the communication signal,the display unit 31 may be in an available state. On the other hand, ina case where the display unit 31 is not communicated with the component30 or information is not included in the communication signal due to theweak intensity of the signal, the display unit may be in an unavailablestate. One of the display unit 31 and the component 30 transmits acommunication signal, and the other of the display unit 31 and thecomponent 30 transmits a response signal. The presence of use of thedisplay unit 31 may be determined by the presence of reception of thecommunication and response signals and the signal intensity. That is, ina case where any one of the display unit 31 and the component 30 doesnot receive a signal or the intensity of received signal is less than areference intensity, it may be determined that the display unit 31 isunavailable. Any one of the display unit 31 and the component 30 mayincrease the intensity of a transmission signal until it receives aresponse signal of which intensity is more than the reference intensity.

Information for informing the user of the presence of use of the displayunit 31 may be displayed in the display unit 31 or the component 30. Ifit is recognized that the display unit 31 is unavailable, the component30 may be controlled to increase its unique performance, to perform adoor locking function or to limit its operation. Alternatively, thepower of the component may be off while maintaining the power of acommunication apparatus (modem) required to perform communication in thenetwork system. Alternatively, the power of the component may be offwhile maintaining only a memory function for storing the stateinformation of the component.

Meanwhile, sensors may be provided to the respective display unit 31 andcomponent 30 so as to sense the presence of mounting of the display unit31. As an example, the presence of mounting of the display unit 31 maybe determined when the component 30 is operated. Each of the sensors maybe a vibration sensor for sensing vibration. If the display unit 31 ismounted on the component 30, vibration generated in the operation of thecomponent 30 can be transferred to the display unit 31. Therefore, in acase where the difference between the values of vibrations respectivelysensed by the sensors is less than a predetermined value, it may berecognized that the display unit 31 is mounted on the component 30. Ifit is recognized that the display unit 31 is mounted on the component30, the operation of the component 30 may be controlled so thatvibration or noise generated in the operation of the component 30 isdecreased. As an example, in a case where the component 30 is a washingmachine or drier, the rotation speed of a motor may be decreased. In acase where the component 30 is a refrigerator, the driving period of acompressor may be decreased. On the contrary, if it is recognized thatthe display unit 31 is separated from the component 30, the componentmay be controlled to increase its unique performance, to perform a doorlocking function or to limit its operation.

As another example, each of the sensor may be a temperature sensor. In acase where the difference between the values of temperaturesrespectively sensed by the sensors is less than a predetermined value,it may be recognized that the display unit 31 is mounted on thecomponent 30.

In the state that the display unit 31 is separated from the component30, an auxiliary display unit may be provided to the component 30 so asto enable the operation of the component 30. The presence of operationof the auxiliary display unit may be determined based on the presence ofuse of the display unit 31. As an example, if the display unit 31 isseparated from the component 30 or is unavailable, the auxiliary displayunit may be turned on.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the communication structure oftwo components that constitute the network system according to a firstembodiment. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the detailed configurationof a communication device that constitutes a communication unitaccording to the first embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 2, 4 and 5, first and second component 61 and 62 thatconstitute the network system may perform wired or wirelesscommunication by means of a communication unit 50. The first and secondcomponents 61 and 62 may perform unidirectional or bidirectionalcommunication.

In a case where the two components 61 and 62 perform wiredcommunication, the communication unit 50 may be a simple communicationline or power line communication means. It will be apparent that thepower line communication means may include communicators (e.g., a modemor the like) respectively connected to the two components.

In a case where the two components 61 and 62 perform wirelesscommunication, the communication unit 50 may include a firstcommunicator 51 connected to the first component 61 and a secondcommunicator 52 connected to the second component 62. In this case, thefirst and second communicators 51 and 52 perform wireless communicationwith each other.

As an example, if any one of the first and second communicators ispowered on, one of the two communicators may transmit a networkparticipation request signal, and the other of the two communicators maytransmit a permission signal. As another example, if any one of thefirst and second communicators is powered on, the powered-oncommunicator may transmit a network participation request signal to acommunicator previously participated in the network, and thecommunicator that receives the request signal may transmit a permissionsignal to the powered-on communicator.

In a case where a communicator that recognizes energy informationdetermines that an error occurs in the received information in the statethat a specific component participates in the network, the informationis re-requested. For example, in a case where the first communicatorreceives energy information from the second communicator but an erroroccurs in the received information, the first communicator may requestthe second communicator to re-transmit the energy information. If thefirst communicator does not receive normal information for apredetermined time or number of times, it is determined that the firstcommunicator has an error. In this case, information for informing auser of the error may be displayed in the first communicator or thefirst component 61.

The first component 61 may be a component that constitutes the UAN 10 ora component that constitutes the HAN 20.

The second component 62 may be a component that constitutes the UAN 10or a component that constitutes the HAN 20.

The first and second components 61 and 62 may be the same kind ofcomponent or different kinds of components.

Components may be joined in the UAN 10 or the HAN 20.

Specifically, addresses may be assigned to a plurality of components,e.g., first and second components, respectively. Herein, the addressesare necessary for performing communication between the components andcan be mapped to at least a group.

The address may be understood as values respectively converted from theunique code of the first or second component. That is, at least aportion of the components that constitute the network system may have anunchangeable/unique code, and the code may be converted into an addressfor building a network.

In other words, product codes for at least some of the plurality ofcomponents capable of constituting first and second networks may beconverted into different network codes based on the constitutednetworks.

As an example, the product code may be a unique code determined inproduction of electric appliances or a code separately provided for theregistration of a network. The product code may be converted into anidentity (ID) for identifying a network to which the electric applianceis to be registered.

The first and second networks may be networks that constitute the UAN 10or networks that constitute the HAN 20. On the other hand, the first andsecond networks may be the UAN 10 and the HAN 20, respectively.Alternatively, the first and second networks may be the HAN 20 and theUAN 10, respectively.

A first component and a second component for allowing the firstcomponent to participate in the network may be included in the pluralityof components that constitute the network. For example, the firstcomponent may be an electric appliance and the second component may be aserver.

Any one of the first and second components transmits a request signalfor participating in the network, and the other of the first and secondcomponents may transmit a permission signal.

That is, a signal may be transmitted/received between the first andsecond components, and whether or not to participate in the network maybe determined based on the transmission time or number of the signal.

As an example, the first component transmits a test signal to the secondcomponent, and it is determined whether or not a response signal fromthe second component is transmitted to the first component. In a casewhere the response signal is not transmitted, the first componentre-transmits the test signal, and it is re-determined whether or not aresponse signal from the second component is transmitted to the firstcomponent. By repeating such a process, if the transmission number ofthe test signal exceeds the setting number of the test signal, it may bedetermined that the second component does not participate in thenetwork.

Meanwhile, the first component may transmit the test signal to thesecond component. If a response signal from the second component is nottransmitted within a setup time, it may be determined that the secondcomponent does not participate in the network.

The first and second communicators 51 and 52 may have the samestructure. Hereinafter, the first and second communicators 51 and 52will be referred to as a communicator 51 and 52.

The communicator 51 and 52 may include a first communication part 511for communication with the first component 61, a second communicationpart 512 for communication with the second component 62, a memory 513for storing information received from the first component 61 andinformation received from the second component 62, a processor 516 forperforming information processing, and a power supply 517 for supplyingpower to the communicator 51 and 52.

Specifically, the communication language (or scheme) of the firstcommunication part 511 may be identical to or different from that of thesecond communication part 512.

Two kinds of information respectively received from the two componentsmay be stored in the memory 513. The two kinds of information may bestored in a single sector or may be respectively stored in sectors. Inany case, an area in which the information received from the firstcomponent 61 may be referred to as a first memory 514, and an area inwhich the information received from the second component 62 may bereferred to as a second memory 515.

The processor 516 may generate first information or generate second andthird information based on information received from the component oranother communicator.

As an example, in a case where the communicator 51 and 52 receives thefirst information, it may generate information or sequentially generatethe information and the second information by processing a data.Alternatively, in a case where the communicator 51 and 52 receives thefirst information, it may generate the second and third information byprocessing a data. In a case where the communicator 51 and 52 receivesthe third information, it may new third information.

For example, in a case where the second component is an energyconsumption component (electric home appliance, component thatconstitutes the electric home appliance, or the like), the secondcommunicator may generate a command for reducing energy consumption. Ina case where the second component is an energy generation component,energy distribution component or energy storage component, the secondcommunicator 52 may generate a command for energy generation time,generation amount, energy distribution time, distribution amount, energystorage time, storage amount or the like. In this case, the secondcommunicator 52 serves as an energy management component.

The power supply 517 may receive electricity supplied from thecomponents 61 and 62 or may receive electricity supplied from a separatepower source. Alternatively, the power supply 517 may be a battery orthe like.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a communication performing process between aspecific component and a communication device according to the firstembodiment.

Hereinafter, for convenience of illustration, a communication performingprocess between the second component 62 and the second communicator 52will be described as an example. A communication performing processbetween the first component 61 and the first communicator 51 may beidentically applied to that between the second component 62 and thesecond communicator 62.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the second communicator 52 receives amessage from the first communicator 51. The second communicator 52 mayreceive a message in real time or by periods without transmitting arequest for the message to the first communicator 51, or may receive amessage as a response for the request for the message to the firstcommunicator 51. Alternatively, the second communicator 52 may receive amessage by requesting information to the first communicator 51 at apoint of time when it is initially turned on. Then, the secondcommunicator 52 may receive information in real time or by periods fromthe first communicator 51 without a request for information.

The information received from the first communicator 51 is stored in thememory 513. The second communicator 52 transmits a message to the secondcomponent 62 as a response for the message. In this instance, themessage transmitted to the second component 62 relates to newinformation different from the information previously stored in thememory 513, or information generated in the processor 516.

Then, the second component 62 transmits an acknowledge character (ack)or negative acknowledge character (Nak) to the second communicator 52 asa response for the message. The second component 62 performs a function(generation of a command, operation, or the like) based on the receivedinformation, or waits for performing the function.

Meanwhile, the second communicator 52 requests component information tothe second component 62 in real time or by periods. As an example, thecomponent information may be component state information or informationon a component unique code, a manufacturer, a service name code, anelectricity usage amount, and the like. Then, the second component 62transmits component information to the second communicator 52 as aresponse for the request. The component information is stored in thememory 513 of the second communicator 52.

If the second communicator 52 receives a message for requesting thecomponent information from the first communicator 51, it transmits thecomponent information stored in the memory 513 to the first communicator51 as a response for the message. Alternatively, the second communicator52 transmits the component information stored in the memory 513 to thefirst communicator 51 in real time or by periods.

The second communicator 52 may transmit the information of the firstcomponent, stored in the memory, to the first component together withthe information received from the first component. Alternatively, thesecond communicator 52 may transmit the information of the firstcomponent, stored in the memory, to the first component, separately fromtransmitting the information received from the first component.

The second communicator 52 stores the information of the secondcomponent 62 in the memory 513. Hence, in a case where the secondcommunicator 52 receives a message for requesting the componentinformation from the first communicator 51, it transmits the componentinformation stored in the memory 513 directly to the first communicatorwithout a request for information to the second component 62, and thus,the communication load of the second component 62 can be reduced. Thatis, the second component becomes a virtual component.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a communication performing process between aspecific component and a communication device according to a secondembodiment.

Hereinafter, for convenience of illustration, a communication performingprocess between the second component 62 and the second communicator 52will be described as an example. A communication performing processbetween the first component 61 and the first communicator 51 may beidentically applied to that between the second component 62 and thesecond communicator 62.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 7, the second communicator 52 receives amessage from the first communicator 51. The second communicator 52 mayreceive a message in real time or by periods without transmitting arequest for the message to the first communicator 51, or may receive amessage as a response for the request for the message to the firstcommunicator 51. Alternatively, the second communicator 52 may receive amessage by requesting information to the first communicator 51 at apoint of time when it is initially turned on. Then, the secondcommunicator 52 may receive information in real time or by periods fromthe first communicator 51 without a request for information.

If the second communicator 52 receives a message for requestinginformation from the second component 62, it transmits a message to thesecond component 62 as a response for the message for requesting theinformation. In this instance, the message transmitted to the secondcomponent 62 relates to new information different from the informationpreviously stored in the memory 513, or information generated in theprocessor 516. Alternatively, the information transmitted to the secondcomponent 62 may be information received from the first component.

The second component 62 performs a function based on the receivedinformation or waits for performing the function.

Meanwhile, the second component 62 transmits component information tothe second component 62 in real time or by periods. As an example, thecomponent information may be component state information or informationon a component unique code, a manufacturer, a service name code, anelectricity usage amount, and the like.

As described above, the electricity usage amount may be detected by thesmart meter. In a case where the electricity usage amount is included inthe information of the second component 62, the correction of an actualelectricity usage amount may be performed by comparing the informationof the second component 62 with the information of the smart meter.

Then, the second communicator 52 stores the information of the secondcomponent 62 in the memory 513, and transmits an acknowledge character(ack) or negative acknowledge character (Nak) to the second component 62as a response for the message.

If the second communicator 52 receives a message for requestingcomponent information from the first communicator 51, it transmits theinformation of the second component 62, stored in the memory 513, to thefirst communicator 51 as a response for the message. Alternatively, thesecond communicator 52 the information of the second component 62,stored in the memory 513, to the first communicator 51 in real time orby periods.

The second communicator 52 stores the information of the secondcomponent 62 in the memory 513. Hence, in a case where the secondcommunicator 52 receives the message for requesting the componentinformation from the first communicator 51, it transmits the informationstored in the memory 513 directly to the first communicator 51 withouttransmitting a request for information to the second component 62, andthus, the communication load of the second component 62 can be reduced.That is, the second communicator 52 becomes a virtual component.

<Applications>

In the following descriptions, the first and second components may bereversed to each other, and therefore, overlapping descriptions will beomitted. For example, in a case where the first component is an electrichome appliance and the second component is an energy managementcomponent, description in a case where the first component is an energymanagement component and the second component is an electric homeappliance will be omitted.

Information transmitted/received by each of the components may be allthe information described above. Particularly, specific information maybe transmitted/received for each of the components.

The energy generation components 11 and 21 may transmit/receiveinformation related to energy generation amount, and the like. Theenergy distribution components 12 and 22 may transmit/receiveinformation related to energy distribution amount, distribution time,and the like. The energy storage components 13 and 23 maytransmit/receive information related to energy storage amount, storagetime, and the like. The energy metering components 15 and 25 maytransmit/receive information related to energy consumption amount, andthe like. The energy management components 14 and 24 maytransmit/receive information related to energy generation, distribution,storage, consumption, cost, reliability, emergency situation, and thelike.

(1) Case where Second Component is One Component of HAN

The second component 62 may be an energy consumption component 26, e.g.,a heater, motor, compressor, display or the like. In this case, thefirst component 61 may be a MICOM or energy consumption component 26 asan example. The MICOM or energy consumption component 26 may transmit amessage for reducing energy consumption to another energy consumptioncomponent 26. Then, the another energy consumption component 26 mayperform an operation for reducing energy, for example.

As another example, the energy consumption component 26 may be anelectric home appliance. In this case, the first component 61 may be anenergy storage component 23, an energy consumption component 26(electric home appliance), an energy management component 24, an energymetering component 25, a central management component 27, a web servercomponent 28, or a component that constitutes the UAN 10.

In this instance, an energy management function may be included or notincluded in the first component 61 except the energy managementcomponent 24.

In a case where an energy management function or solution is notincluded in the first component 61, it may be included in thecommunication unit or may be included in the MICOM of the secondcomponent 62. In this case, the energy management function is related tothe consumption of energy.

As still another example, the second component 62 may be an energygeneration component 21, an energy distribution component 22 or anenergy storage component 23. In this case, the first component 61 may bean energy management component 24, a central management component 27, aweb server component 28 or a component that constitutes the UAN 10.

A message may be transmitted to the second component 62. Herein, themessage may include energy generation time, generation amount or thelike, energy distribution time, distribution amount or the like, andenergy storage time, storage amount or the like.

In this instance, an energy management function may be included or notincluded in the first component 61 except the energy managementcomponent 24.

In a case where an energy management function or solution is notincluded in the first component 61, it may be included in thecommunication unit. In this case, the energy management function isrelated to the generation, distribution and storage of energy.

As still another example, the second component may be an energy meteringcomponent 25. In this case, the first component 61 may be a centralmanagement component 27, a web server component 28 or a component thatconstitutes the UAN 10.

An energy management function may be included or not included in theenergy metering component. In a case where the energy managementfunction is included in the energy metering component 25, the energymetering component 25 performs the same operation as the EMS.

In a case where an energy management function or solution is included inthe energy metering component 25, it may be included in thecommunication unit or may be included in the second component 62.

As still another example, the second component 62 may be a centralmanagement component 27. In this case, the first component 61 may be aweb server component 28 or a component that constitutes the UAN 10.

(2) Case where Second Component is One Component of UAN

The first component 61 may be a component that constitutes the UAN 10.In this case, the first and second components 61 and 62 may be the samekind of component or different kinds of components.

An energy management function may be included in the first component 61,the second component 62 or the communication unit.

The energy management function included in a specific component or theenergy management function included in the energy management component14 may be related to generation amount, distribution amount, storageamount, energy usage amount of a component that constitutes the HAN 20.

In this specification, an example capable of constituting the networksystem has been described. However, any component not mentioned in thisspecification may be a first or second component that performscommunication through the communication unit. For example, an automobilemay be a second component, and the energy management component 24 may bea first component.

(3) Case where One of First and Second Components Communicates withThird Component

Although the communication between two components has been described inthe aforementioned examples, each of the first and second components mayperform communication with one or more components (a third component toan n-th component).

In this case, the relation of the first or second component thatperforms communication with the third component and the like may be oneof the aforementioned examples.

For example, the first component may be a component that constitutes theUAN, the second component may be an energy management component 24 thatcommunicates with the first component, and the third component may be anenergy consumption component 26 that communicates with the secondcomponent. In this instance, one or more of the three components maycommunicate with another component.

In this specification, the first to n-th components may be componentsthat constitute the UAN or components that constitute the HAN.Alternatively, a portion of the components may be components thatconstitute the UAN, or another portion of the components may becomponents that constitute the HAN.

Hereinafter, third and fourth embodiments will be described. Adifference between these embodiments and the aforementioned embodimentswill be mainly described, and descriptions and reference numerals willbe quoted to elements of these embodiments identical to those of theaforementioned embodiments.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the communication structure of componentsthat constitute the network system according to a third embodiment. FIG.9 is a block diagram showing the detailed configuration of a firstcomponent in FIG. 8.

Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, a first component 70 may communicate withsecond to fifth components 82, 83, 84 and 85. Hereinafter, it will bedescribed as an example that the first component 70 is a centralmanagement component (home server), the second and third components 82and 83 are energy consumption components (electric home appliances), thefourth component 84 is an energy metering component (smart meter), andthe fifth component 85 is a component that constitutes the UAN. Thecomponents may communicate with each other by means of a communicationunit. In the network system illustrated in FIG. 8, each of thecomponents is directly connected to the first component 70 tocommunicate with the first component 70. However, in a case where eachof the components 82, 83, 84 and 85 is connected to new components tocommunicate with the new components, the network system may be extendedand operated by the new components.

The second and third components 82 and 83 may be the same kind ofcomponent or different kinds of components. In this embodiment, it willbe described as an example that the second and third components 82 and83 are different kinds of energy consumption components.

The first component 70 may simply transmit information received from thefourth component 84 and/or the fifth component 85 to the secondcomponent 82 and/or the third component 83, or may process the receivedinformation and transmit the processed information.

The first component 70 may simply transmit information received from thesecond component 82 and/or the third component 83 to the fourthcomponent 84 and/or the fifth component 85 (a signal may be converted),or may process the received information and transmit the processedinformation (the information is converted.

The first component 70 includes a communication unit 760 for performingcommunication with another component, a central manager 710 for managingthe entire operation and/or information processing of the firstcomponent, and an application programming interface 720 (hereinafter,referred to as an API) for performing an interface between thecommunication unit 760 and the central manager 710 (specifically,application software).

The communication unit 760 includes a first communication part 762 forperforming communication with the second and third components 82 and 83,a second communication part 764 for performing communication with thefourth component 84, and a third communication part 766 for performingcommunication with the fifth component 85.

In this instance, the first and second communication parts 762 and 764may use different communication protocols from each other. As anexample, the first communication part 762 may use Zigbee and the secondcommunication part 764 may use Wi-fi. In this embodiment, the kind ofcommunication protocol or method used by the first and secondcommunication parts 762 and 764 is not limited. The third communicationcomponent 766 may use Internet communication as an example.

The API 720 includes a first API 722, a second API 724 and a third API726. The third API 726 is an interface between the central manager 710and the third communication part 766, and the first API 722 is aninterface between the first communication part 762 and the centralmanager 710. The second API 724 is an interface between the secondcommunication part 762 and the central manager 710.

The first component 70 further includes a local manager 740 and aninterpreter 750. In a case where the information to betransmitted/received between the API 720 and the communication unit 760is information related to operations of energy consumption components(electric home appliances), the local manager 740 outputs informationcorresponding to the respective energy consumption components. Theinterpreter 750 interprets information transmitted from the localmanager 740 to the communication unit 760 or information received in thecommunication unit 760. The information outputted from the interpreter750 is used to set or get values of information related to therespective energy consumption components.

The local manager 740 includes a memory (not shown) in which informationrelated to one or more energy consumption components is stored.Alternatively, the local manager 740 may be connected to a memory inwhich information related to one or more energy consumption componentsis stored. The information related to each of the energy consumptioncomponents may include operation information of each of the energyconsumption components and information for controlling the energyconsumption components. The information related to each of the energyconsumption components may further include software download informationfor operating each of the energy consumption components and informationfor remote controlling/monitoring.

As an example, in a case where a plurality of energy consumptioncomponents include a washing machine, a refrigerator and a cookingappliance, information related to each of the energy consumptioncomponents is stored in the memory. The information related to each ofthe energy consumption components may be changed as components connectedto the network system are changed.

If a signal is transmitted from the API 720 to the local manager 740,information corresponding to a specific energy consumption component isoutputted. In a case where a plurality of energy consumption componentsexist, information on the plurality of energy consumption components isoutputted. The interpreter 750 interprets the information transmittedfrom the local manager 740 into a machine language so as to transmit theinformation to the energy consumption components. The machine languagemay be a signal used to set or get the operation information of theenergy consumption components.

The information transmission process in the first component 70 will bedescribed.

As an example, the first component 70 may receive energy information(e.g., an energy reduction signal: first command) from the forthcomponent 45 through the second communication part 764. The receivedenergy information is transmitted to the central manager 710 through thesecond API 724. In the process of information transmission between thesecond API 724 and the central manager 710, only a signal including theinformation is converted, and the content of the information is notconverted.

Since the energy information is information related to the energyconsumption reduction of the energy consumption components, the centralmanager 710 transmits information (second command) related to operationsof the energy consumption components to the API 720. As an example, thecentral manager 710 transmits information necessary for turning offpower of the washing machine or refrigerator.

Then, the information is transmitted from the first API 722 to the localmanager 740.

The local manager 740 transmits information (third command) forcontrolling the operation of each of the energy consumption componentsto the interpreter 750 based on the information transmitted from thefirst API 722. As an example, in a case where the informationtransmitted from the first API 722 is information having different kindsof energy consumption components as targets, the local manager 740transmits information related to the control of each of the energyconsumption components to the interpreter 750. In this case, since thelocal manager 740 receives the second command and outputs the thirdcommand, the information inputted to the local manager 740 is convertedand outputted by the local manager 740.

Subsequently, the interpreter 750 interprets the information transmittedfrom the local manager 740 into a machine language (signal). Then, theconverted signal is transmitted to the target energy consumptioncomponents (second and third components) through the first communicationpart 762. Then, the energy consumption components (second and thirdcomponents) are finally turned off so as to reduce energy.

Although it has been described above that the first component receivesinformation through the second communication part, the first componentmay receive information through the third component so that theinformation related to the energy consumption components is outputted.

Meanwhile, the second and third components 82 and 83 may transmit theirown operation information to the first component 70. Since theinformation transmitted from the second and third components 82 and 83is information related to operations of the energy consumptioncomponents, the signal received in the first communication part 762 istransmitted to the central manager 710 via the interpreter 750, thelocal manager 760 and the first API 722. In such an informationtransmission process, the information related to the second and thirdcomponents 82 and 83 is stored in the local manager 740. In thisembodiment, since the information related to the energy consumptioncomponents is stored in the local manager, the local manager may beunderstood as a virtual energy consumption component (abstractionmodel).

The central manager 710 may transmit the received information to thesecond communication part 764 and/or the third communication part 766.

The operation of the first component will be described. The informationreceived through the communication unit 760 may be transmitted directlyto the API 720, or may be converted (via the interpreter and the localmanager) and then transmitted to the API 720, based on the kind ofinformation (or the type of signal).

The information transmitted from the central manager 740 may betransmitted directly to the communication unit 760, or may be convertedand then transmitted to the communication unit 760.

As another example, the interpreter may be included in the local manager740, and the information received through the communication unit 760 istransmitted to the local manager 740. However, converted information maybe outputted, or information may be outputted as it is withoutconverting the information.

Meanwhile, in a case where the information transmitted to the API 720through the second or third communication part 764 or 766 is information(raw data or refined data) related to time-based pricing, the centralmanager 710 determines the presence of on-peak time. In the case of theon-peak time, the central manager 710 may transmit the information(first command) for controlling the operations of the energy consumptioncomponents to the API 720. Then, the information is converted throughthe local manager 740, and the converted information (second command) istransmitted to the energy consumption components through the firstcommunication part 762. Alternatively, the central manager 710 maytransmit the information related to the time-based pricing to the firstcommunication part 762 through the second API 724 without determiningthe presence of on-peak time. In this case, the information may beconverted or not converted. That is, in a case where the central managerdirectly receives first information (raw data), it may transmit thefirst information as it is, or convert the first information into asecond information (refined data) and then transmit the secondinformation.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the communication structure of componentsthat constitute the network system according to a fourth embodiment.FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the detailed configuration of a firstcomponent in FIG. 10.

Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the network system of this embodiment mayinclude at least first to fourth components 92, 94, 96 and 98.

The first component 92 may communicate with the second to fourthcomponents 94, 96 and 98. The fourth component 98 may communicate withthe first to third components 92, 94 and 96.

Hereinafter, it will be described as an example that the first component92 is a central management component (home server), the second and thirdcomponents 94 and 96 are energy consumption components (electric homeappliances), and the fourth component 98 is an energy metering component(smart meter).

The central management component (home server) may be understood as acomponent necessary for controlling at least a component thatconstitutes the HAN 20.

The first component 92 includes a communication unit 970 for performingcommunication with another component, a central manager 920 for managingthe entire operation and/or information transmission/reception of thefirst component 92, and an application programming interface 930(hereinafter, referred to as an “API”) that serves as an interfacebetween the communication unit 970 and the central manager 920(specifically, application software).

The communication unit 970 may include a first communication component972 for performing communication with the second to fourth components94, 96 and 98, and a second communication component 974 for performingInternet communication.

The API 930 includes a first API 932 and a second API 934. The secondAPI 934 is an interface between the central manager 920 and the secondcommunication part 974, and the first API 930 is an interface betweenthe first communication part 972 and the central manager 920.

The first component 92 further includes a local manager 950 and aninterpreter 960. In a case where the information to betransmitted/received between the API 932 and the communication unit 970is information related to operations of energy consumption components(electric home appliances), the local manager 950 outputs informationcorresponding to the respective energy consumption components. Theinterpreter 960 interprets information transmitted from the localmanager 950 to the communication unit 970 or information received in thecommunication unit 970.

In this embodiment, the functions of the interpreter and the localmanager are identical to those of the third embodiment, and therefore,their detailed descriptions will be omitted.

The information transmission process in the first component 92 will bedescribed.

As an example, the first component 92 may receive energy information(e.g., energy reduction signal) from the fourth component 98 through thefirst communication part 972. Alternatively, the first component 92 mayreceive energy information from an external component connected toInternet through the second communication part 974.

The received energy information is transmitted directly to the first orsecond API 932 or 934 and then transmitted to the central manager 920.Since the energy information is information related to the energyconsumption reduction of the energy consumption components, the centralmanager 920 transmits information related to the operations of theenergy consumption components to the first API 932. As an example, thecentral manager 920 transmits information necessary for turning offpower of a washing machine or refrigerator.

Then, the information is transmitted from the first API 932 to the localmanager 950.

The local manager 950 transmits information for controlling theoperation of each of the energy consumption components to theinterpreter 960 based on the information transmitted from the first API932. As an example, in a case where the information transmitted from thefirst API is information related to different kinds of energyconsumption components, the local manager 950 transmits informationrelated to the control of each of the energy consumption components tothe interpreter 960.

Subsequently, the interpreter 960 interprets the information transmittedfrom the local manager 960 into a machine language (signal). Then, theinterpreted signal is transmitted to the energy consumption componentsthrough the first communication part 972. Then, the energy consumptioncomponents are finally turned off so as to reduce energy.

Meanwhile, the second and third components 94 and 96 may transmit theirown operation information to the first component 92. Since theinformation transmitted from the second and third components isinformation related to the operations of the energy consumptioncomponents, the signal received in the first communication part 972 istransmitted to the central manager 920 via the interpreter 960, thelocal manager 950 and the first API 932. In such an informationtransmission process, the information related to the first and secondcomponents is stored in the local manager 950.

The central manager 920 may transmit the received information to thefirst communication part 972. Then, the information of the second andthird components 94 and 96 is transmitted to the fourth component 98.

The operation of the first component will be described. The informationreceived through the communication unit 970 may be transmitted directlyto the API 930, or may be converted (via the interpreter and the localmanager) and then transmitted to the API 930, based on the kind ofinformation (or the type of signal).

On the contrary, the information transmitted from the central manager920 may be transmitted directly to the communication unit 970, or may beconverted and then transmitted to the communication unit 970.

Meanwhile, in a case where the information transmitted to the API 930through the second communication part 974 is information related totime-based pricing, the central manager 920 determines the presence ofon-peak time. In the case of the on-peak time, the central manager 920may transmit the information for controlling the operations of theenergy consumption components to the API 930. Then, the information istransmitted to the energy consumption components through the localmanager, the interpreter and the first communication part. In this case,the first component may be understood as an energy management component.

Although it has been described above that two energy consumptioncomponents communicate with the first component, the number of energyconsumption components that communicate with the first component is notlimited.

Although it has been described as an example that the first component isa home server, the first component may be an energy managementcomponent. In this case, the fourth component may be a centralmanagement component, an energy management component, a smart meter, orthe like.

As another example, the first component may be a smart meter. In thiscase, the fourth component may be a central management component, anenergy management component, or the like.

As still another example, the first component may be a terminalcomponent (e.g., a gate way).

As still another example, each of the second and third components may bean energy generation component, an energy storage component or the like,which constitutes the HAN. That is, one or more of the energy generationcomponent, the energy consumption component and the energy storagecomponent may communicate with the first component. In addition toinformation related to the energy consumption component, informationrelated to the energy generation component (e.g., information related tothe operation of the energy generation component) and informationrelated to the energy storage component (e.g., information related tothe operation of the energy storage component) may be stored in thememory included in a local network or connected to the local network.

Although it has been described above that the first component performsInternet communication, the Internet communication may not be performed.

Although it has been described in the first embodiment that a singlelocal manager is provided, a plurality of local managers may beprovided. As an example, a first local manager may process informationon an electric home appliance such as a refrigerator or washing machine,and a second local manager may process information on a display productsuch as a television or monitor.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of home area network whichconfigures a network system according to the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 12, a home area network 20 according to the presentdisclosure may include an energy metering component 25 (for example, asmart meter) for metering in real time a power and/or an electricitycost that is provided from the utility area network 10 to each home, andan energy management component 24 that is connected to the energymetering component 25 and an electric product, and controls operationsthereof.

The electricity cost of each home may be billed at an hourly cost. Anhourly electricity cost increases at a time period where the amount ofpower consumption increases rapidly. An hourly electricity cost may berelatively reduced at a midnight time where the amount of powerconsumption is relatively low.

The energy management component 24 may be connected to electric products(which is not limited to the above examples) such as an energy charger200 for charging a robot cleaner 100, a washing machine 101, an airconditioner 102, a television (TV) 103 and a cooking appliance 104 thatmay be included as the energy consumption component 26, and performbi-directional communication with the electric products over a networkin each home. Moreover, the energy charger 200 may communicate with anenergy network assistance component 28 (for example, a mobile device).

In each home, communication may be performed in a wireless communicationscheme such as Zigbee or Wifi, or in a wired communication scheme suchas Power Line Communication (PLC), and one electric product may beconnected to other electric products for communicating.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating an example of an energyconsumption component which may be used in a home area network accordingto the present disclosure. FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating anexample where the energy charger is connected to a network.

Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, the energy charger 200 may communicatewith the robot cleaner 100 and the energy management component 24.Moreover, the energy charger 200 may communicate with the energy networkassistance component 28. In this embodiment, the energy charger 200 maybe called a movable component. Although not shown, the energy charger200 may include a wheel for moving, and a motor for driving the wheel.The wheel and the motor may be called a driving component.

The energy charger 200 includes a body 210, and a charger plug 230 forsupplying a power from a power supply source. The energy managementcomponent 24 may include an input unit 242 for inputting a command, acommunication unit 244 for communicating with a communication unit ofthe energy charger 200, and a display unit for displaying all kinds ofinformation.

In detail, the body 210 includes a base 218, a front cover 216, acontrol signal transmission unit 214, and a top cover 212. The base 218may include a terminal unit 217 that is connected to a charge terminalof the robot cleaner 100 and receives a charging power. On the otherhand, the robot cleaner 100 may receive a charging power from the energycharger 200 in a state where it is physically separated from the body210. As an example, the robot cleaner 100 may receive a power throughwireless radio wave communication or induction of an electromagneticfield.

The base 218 configures a rear surface and bottom of the energy charger200, and provides a space in which the terminal unit 217 and the controlsignal transmission unit 214 are mounted. Therefore, although not shown,a coupling portion in which the control signal transmission unit 214 andthe terminal unit 217 may be assembled or temporarily assembled may beprepared in the base 218. In the coupling portion, a portion of theterminal unit 217 or control signal transmission unit 214 may be coupledthrough dovetail or a separate coupling member.

Herein, the terminal unit 217 supplies a power, which is receivedthrough a charger power management component 270 that will be describedbelow, to the robot cleaner 100 and thus allows charging to beperformed. For this, the charger power management component 270 maychange a power to a voltage usable for the robot cleaner 100 and supplythe changed voltage to the robot cleaner 100.

The control signal transmission unit 214 may transmit a return signal tothe robot cleaner 100 so that the robot cleaner 100 will return to theterminal unit 217 and be charged. Moreover, the control signaltransmission unit 214 may transmit a cancellation command to the robotcleaner 100 of which charging is completed. That is, the control signaltransmission unit 214 may include an approach inducement sensor fortransmitting a return inducement signal, and an infrared or radiofrequency (RF) sensor for generating a control signal equal or similarto a control signal that is generated by a remote controller foroperating the robot cleaner 100.

The front cover 216 and the top cover 212 opening/closing the base 218and a top of the front cover 216 protect the control signal transmissionunit 214 and form an internal space together with the base 218, and thusallow a plurality of electric products including the control signaltransmission unit 214 to be accommodated internally. Herein, a portioncorresponding to the control signal transmission unit 214 istransparently formed in the front cover 216 and allows a control signalto be smoothly transmitted.

Moreover, an LAN connection terminal 242 may be prepared to be connectedto an Internet network installed in each home, in one side of the body210. The LAN connection terminal 242 is for sending a cleaning commandto the robot cleaner 100 when charging of the robot cleaner 100 iscompleted and thereafter a user inputs a telephone number given to theenergy charger 200 from a long-distance place with the energy networkassistance component 28, and sends a control signal to a remote controlcomponent 240 that is included in the body 210.

For this, the remote control component 240 may include a Voice overInternet Protocol (VoIP) gateway 244, and the energy network assistancecomponent 28 changes information received through the LAN connectedterminal 242, to information for operating the robot cleaner 100.

That is, an Internet phone number connectable to the energy networkassistance component 28 through an Internet line is given to the remotecontrol component 240. When phone call is received to the Internettelephone, the VoIP gateway 244 changes the phone call to a cleaningcommand for the robot cleaner 100 and transmits a control commandthrough the control signal transmission unit 214.

Moreover, the user is connected to the Internet line with a personalterminal, and may operate the robot cleaner 100.

In this case, the personal terminal is required to include a program foroperating the robot cleaner 100. The program may generate the samecontrol command as a case where phone call is received to the Internetphone number given to the remote control component 240, and thus operatethe robot cleaner 100.

Unlike this, when the robot cleaner 100 includes a communication unitfor communicating with the energy network assistance component 28 andthe other components, a command is inputted to the energy networkassistance component 28 and the other component and may be sent to therobot cleaner 100 without passing through the energy charger 200.

Hereinafter, an operation of charging the robot cleaner 100 will bedescribed in detail.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a charging method of a robot cleaneraccording to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. This may beperformed by the control unit.

Referring to FIG. 15, for example, the robot cleaner 100 performscleaning according to a cleaning command in operation S1. Energyinformation and the remaining charge amount of a battery are recognizedwhile the robot cleaner 100 is performing cleaning in operation S2. Theenergy information may be recognized by the energy charger 200 andtransmitted to the robot cleaner 100. Alternatively, the robot cleaner100 may recognize the energy information.

Subsequently, whether the recognized energy information is high-costinformation is determined in operation S3. When the recognizedinformation is not the high-cost information, the recognized energyinformation is determined as low-cost information.

When the high-cost information is recognized, whether charging of thebattery of the robot cleaner 100 is required is determined in operationS4. When charging of the battery is not required, the robot cleaner 100returns to operation S1 and continuously performs cleaning. On the otherhand, when charging of the battery is required, the robot cleaner 100stops cleaning in operation S5. At this point, the robot cleaner 100 maystop at a current position, or may return to the energy charger 200 andstop. In a state where the robot cleaner 100 has stopped, the low-costinformation may be recognized in operation S6. When the low-costinformation is recognized, charging of the battery of the robot cleaner100 is begun in operation S7. When the robot cleaner 100 stops at aposition where cleaning has been ceased, it may return to the energycharger 200 and start charging of the battery.

When charging of the battery is completed, whether the robot cleaner 100completes cleaning is determined in operation S8. When cleaning iscompleted, operation of the robot cleaner 100 is ended in operation S9.On the other hand, when cleaning is not completed, the robot cleaner 100again performs cleaning in operation S10. At this point, the robotcleaner 100 stores a position when cleaning is ceased, returns to theposition after charging is completed, and again performs cleaning.

However, when the low-cost information is recognized as the determinedresult of operation S3, whether charging of the battery of the robotcleaner 100 is required is determined in operation S11. When charging ofthe battery is not required, the robot cleaner 100 returns to operationS1 and continuously performs cleaning. On the other hand, when chargingof the battery is required, the robot cleaner 100 returns to the energycharger 200, and charging of the battery is begun in operation S7.Charging is completed, and then whether the robot cleaner 100 completescleaning is determined in operation S8. When cleaning is completed,operation of the robot cleaner 100 is ended in operation S9. On theother hand, when cleaning is not completed, the robot cleaner 100 againperforms cleaning in operation S10. At this point, the robot cleaner 100stores a position when cleaning is ceased, returns to the position aftercharging is completed, and again performs cleaning.

According to this embodiment, the battery of the robot cleaner 100 maybe charged in a state where the low-cost information has beenrecognized, and thus the charging cost of the battery can be saved.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a charging method of a robot cleaneraccording to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. This may beperformed by the control unit.

Referring to FIG. 16, for example, the robot cleaner 100 performscleaning according to a cleaning command in operation S21. Energyinformation and the remaining charge amount of the battery arerecognized while the robot cleaner 100 is performing cleaning inoperation S22. The energy information may be recognized by the energycharger 200 and transmitted to the robot cleaner 100. Alternatively, therobot cleaner 100 may recognize the energy information.

Subsequently, whether the recognized energy information is high-costinformation is determined in operation S23. When the recognizedinformation is not the high-cost information, the recognized energyinformation is determined as low-cost information.

Operations S24 to S30 after recognition of the high-cost information arethe same as operations S4 to S10 of the first embodiment of the presentdisclosure, and thus their detailed description will be omitted.

When the low-cost information is recognized as the determined result ofoperation S23, the robot cleaner 100 begins charging of the batteryirrespective of whether charging of the battery of the robot cleaner 100is required in operation S27. Charging is completed, and then whetherthe robot cleaner 100 completes cleaning is determined in operation S28.When cleaning is completed, operation of the robot cleaner 100 is endedin operation S29. On the other hand, when cleaning is not completed, therobot cleaner 100 again performs cleaning in operation S30. At thispoint, the robot cleaner 100 stores a position when cleaning is ceased,returns to the position after charging is completed, and again performscleaning.

According to this embodiment, the battery of the robot cleaner 100 maybe charged when the low-cost information is recognized, and thus thecharging cost of the battery can be saved.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a charging method of a robot cleaneraccording to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. This may beperformed by the control unit.

Referring to FIG. 17, for example, the robot cleaner 100 performscleaning according to a cleaning command in operation S31. Energyinformation and the remaining charge amount of the battery arerecognized while the robot cleaner 100 is performing cleaning inoperation S32. The energy information may be recognized by the energycharger 200 and transmitted to the robot cleaner 100. Alternatively, therobot cleaner 100 may recognize the energy information.

Subsequently, whether the recognized energy information is high-costinformation is determined in operation S33. When the recognizedinformation is not the high-cost information, the recognized energyinformation is determined as low-cost information.

Operations S34 to S40 after recognition of the high-cost information arethe same as operations S4 to S10 of the first embodiment of the presentdisclosure, and thus their detailed description will be omitted.

When the low-cost information is recognized as the determined result ofoperation S33, provided is information for checking whether the batteryof the robot cleaner 100 is charged in operation S41. As an example, theinformation for checking may include information indicating “This is alow-cost period. Would you like to charge the battery?”

The information for checking is provided, and thereafter a chargingcommand is inputted in a certain time is determined in operation S42.The charging command may be inputted through the robot cleaner 100 orinputted through the energy charger 200 or the energy network assistancecomponent 28.

When the charging command is inputted in the certain time, the robotcleaner 100 stops cleaning, and begins charging of the battery inoperation S37. When the charging command is not inputted in the certaintime, whether charging of the battery is required is determined inoperation S43. When charging of the battery is required, the robotcleaner 100 begins charging of the battery in operation S37. On theother hand, when charging of the battery is not required, the robotcleaner 100 returns to operation S31, and continuously performscleaning. That is, whether to perform charging is determined accordingto the charging amount of battery.

According to this embodiment, when the low-cost information isrecognized, the information for checking whether to perform charging isprovided to the user. Therefore, the robot cleaner 100 continuouslyperforms cleaning or performs charging of the battery according to theuser's selection, thereby satisfying the user's preference.

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating another example of the home areanetwork which configures the network system according to the presentdisclosure. FIG. 19 is a block diagram illustrating a movable powersupply which may be used the home area network according to the presentdisclosure.

Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, the home area network may include aplurality of electric home appliances 101 to 104. The electric homeappliances may include the washing machine 101, the air conditioner 102,the TV 103 and the cooking appliance 104. The electronic home productsmay communicate with one or more of the energy management component 24and the energy metering component 25.

Moreover, the home area network may include a movable power supply 400,and a power supply component 300 for supplying a power to the movablepower supply 400. The movable power supply 400 may be selectivelyconnected to the power supply component 300 and perform charging, orsupply a charged power to a certain electric product.

In detail, the energy management component 24 may include a control unit240, an input unit 242, a communication unit 244, and a display unit246. The configuration of the energy management component 24 is the sameas the description of FIG. 14, and thus its detailed description will beomitted.

The energy metering component 25 may include a control unit 251, aninput unit 252, a communication unit 253, and a display unit 254.

For example, when a currently-charged power is low at a low-cost period,the movable power supply 400 moves to the power supply component 300,and receives a power from the power supply component 300 to performcharging.

However, when consumption of a power supplied from a utility areanetwork (for example, an electric power company) in a specific electricproduct is high at a high-cost period, the movable power supply 400 maymove to an electric product for receiving a power, dock the electricproduct, and supply the power to the electric product, in order toprevent the power cost from rising.

Herein, the movable power supply 400 may communicate with the energymanagement component 24. Therefore, the movable power supply 400 mayreceive power-related information including power cost information, dockthe power supply component 300 to perform charging, or dock a specificelectric product to supply a power. Reference numeral 400 a is a bodythat forms the outer appearance of the movable power supply 400.

The movable power supply 400 may move to the power supply component 300,dock the power supply component 300 to perform charging, according tocontrol of the energy management component 24. Alternatively, themovable power supply 400 may receive power cost information from theenergy management component 24 or the energy metering component 25, anddock the power supply component 300 to perform charging at the low-costperiod.

The movable power supply 400 may include the body 400 a forming theouter appearance thereof, a control unit 201, a communication unit 402that communicates with the energy management component 24, the energymetering component 25 or each electric product to transmit/receive powerinformation and control information, and a display unit 403 displaying acurrently-charged state and the driving state of the movable powersupply 400, a driving unit 404 that is configured with a motor and awheel connected to the motor and moves the movable e power supply 400.

Moreover, the movable power supply 400 includes a battery 405 that ischarged with a power, a rectifier 406, a converter 407, and a terminalunit 408. The terminal unit 408 serves as a gate when a power isinputted/outputted from/to the outside. The rectifier 406 and theconverter 407 are prepared between the battery 405 and the terminal unit408 and convert an input AC voltage into a DC voltage. Herein, therectifier 406 and the converter 407 are prepared between the battery 405and the terminal unit 408. The terminal unit 408 is connected to aterminal that is prepared in the power supply component 300 and servesas a power moving channel in charging. Alternatively, the terminal unit408 is connected to a terminal that is prepared in each electric productand serves as a power moving channel in supplying of a power.Additionally, a sensor unit 409 is prepared in the movable power supply400, and may sense the positions of an electric product and obstacleperipheral to the movable power supply 400 or the position of the powersupply component 300. In this way, the reason that the sensor unit 409is included is for preventing damage of the movable power supply 400 bypreventing collision with an obstacle and other peripheral objects.Also, once the position of an electric product or the position of thepower supply component 300 is checked and stored, the movable powersupply 400 may quickly reach a specific electric product or the powersupply component 300 on the basis of the positions of the specificelectric product and power supply component 300 that are stored at acurrent position, and a routine for reaching the positions. The sensorunit 409 may be configured with an ultrasonic sensor, an infrared sensoror a camera, and capture the periphery thereof to recognize theperipheral conditions.

The electric product 101 may include a control unit 101 a that controlsthe operation thereof, a terminal unit 101 b that is selectivelyconnected to the terminal unit 408 of the movable power supply 400, aninverter 101 c that inverts a stored DC power into an AC power. Theelectric product 102 may include a control unit 102 a that controls theoperation thereof, a terminal unit 102 b that is selectively connectedto the terminal unit 408 of the movable power supply 400, an inverter102 c that inverts a stored DC power into an AC power. The electricproduct 103 may include a control unit 103 a that controls the operationthereof, a terminal unit 103 b that is selectively connected to theterminal unit 408 of the movable power supply 400, an inverter 103 cthat inverts a stored DC power into an AC power. The electric product104 may include a control unit 104 a that controls the operationthereof, a terminal unit 104 b that is selectively connected to theterminal unit 408 of the movable power supply 400, an inverter 104 cthat inverts a stored DC power into an AC power. Herein, an electricproduct that does not use an AC voltage does not include an inverter.

The electric product 101 includes a power consumption unit 101 d that iscontrolled by the control unit 101 a. The electric product 102 includesa power consumption unit 102 d that is controlled by the control unit102 a. The electric product 103 includes a power consumption unit 103 dthat is controlled by the control unit 103 a. The electric product 104includes a power consumption unit 104 d that is controlled by thecontrol unit 104 a. The power consumption units 101 d, 102 d, 103 d and104 d assist the unique functions of the electronic products 101 to 104while consuming a power, respectively.

That is, when the electric product is a refrigerator, the powerconsumption unit may include a compressor, and a defrosting heater or anice-maker. When the electric product is a washing machine, the powerconsumption unit may include a motor for rotating a drum, and a dryingheater. When the electric product is an air conditioner, the powerconsumption unit may include an indoor fan, an outdoor fan, and acompressor. Switches 101 e, 102 e, 103 e and 104 e are respectivelyprepared in the electronic products 101 to 104. The switches 101 e, 102e, 103 e and 104 e change internal power transfer paths, respectively,and thus allow the electronic products 101 to 104 to receive a powerfrom the utility area network at the low-cost period and allow theelectronic products 101 to 104 to receive a power from the movable powersupply 400 at the high-cost period. The switches 101 e, 102 e, 103 e and104 e are respectively controlled by the control units 101 a, 102 a, 103a and 104 a, and have a communication function. Therefore, the controlunits 101 a, 102 a, 103 a and 104 a communicate with the energymanagement component 24, the energy metering component 25 or the movablepower supply 400, and control the switches 101 e, 102 e, 103 e and 104 eon the basis of power information including power cost information thatis exchanged as the communicated result, respectively.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of the movablepower supply of FIG. 18 according to an embodiment. This may beperformed by the control unit.

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a charging state and power supplyingstate of the movable power supply according to an embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, in a state where an electric product isoperating in operation S51, the energy management component 24 or theenergy metering component 25 may recognize power information includingpower cost information and power usage information in operation S52.Herein, the power information is recognized by the energy managementcomponent 24 or the energy metering component 25, and supply of acharging power corresponding to the recognized result may be performedby the utility area network or the movable power supply 400 according toa command from the energy management component 24 or the energy meteringcomponent 25.

On the other hand, the power information may be recognized by thecontrol unit of each electric product or the control unit of the movablepower supply 400, in which case the control unit may perform a desiredoperation according to the recognized result of power information(whether a current time is in a time period (for example, the high-costperiod) where power cost is equal to or higher than a predeterminedreference, or whether the current time is in a charging allowable period(for example, the low-cost period) capable of charging. That is, whenthe current time is in the time period (for example, the high-costperiod) where the power cost is equal to or higher than thepredetermined reference, use of the utility area network decreases inthe each electric product, which may use an alternative power (which isa power that may be supplied from an auxiliary power source, a movablepower supply, or a self-powered facility) instead of the utility areanetwork.

Furthermore, the movable power supply 400 determines whether power costat the current time is in the charging allowable period in operationS53. When power cost per unit time at the current time is in thecharging allowable period as the determined result of operation S53, asillustrated in a portion (a) of FIG. 21, the movable power supply 400may move to the power supply component 300, and dock the power supplycomponent 300 to be charged with a power in operation S54.

Herein, the charging allowable period denotes a period (for example, thelow-cost period) where power cost is low by a chargeable degree.

In a state where the battery is charged to greater than a certainreference, the movable power supply 400 determines whether power costper unit time is equal to or greater than a certain reference or aconsumption power of a specific electric product is equal to or greaterthan a certain reference, with elapse of time in operation S55.

When the power cost per unit time is less than the certain reference asthe determined result, a power other than the utility area network isnot required, and thus the charged power of the battery of the movablepower supply 400 maintains an unused state in operation S56. That is,the movable power supply 400 is not connected to the electric product.

When the power cost per unit time is equal to or greater than thecertain reference as the determined result, the movable power supply 400is required to supply a power. Therefore, the movable power supply 400determines whether the charging amount of battery is equal to or greaterthan a reference amount in operation S57 to determine whether a chargingamount is sufficient. When the charging amount is equal to or greaterthan the reference amount, as illustrated in a portion (b) of FIG. 21,the movable power supply 400 moves to an electric product, and theterminal unit of the movable power supply 400 is connected to theterminal unit of the electric product, thereby supplying the chargedpower of the battery to the electric product in operation S58.

In the above embodiments, it can be understood that the movable powersupply is a movable component and the power supply component is anenergy charger. The movable power supply may have a cleaning function,in addition to the function of supplying a power the electric product.

In the above embodiments, the movable power supply and the power supplycomponent may have respective sensors (for example, infrared sensors),and may perform docking inducement and communication (informationtransmission/reception) with the sensors (corresponding to acommunication means).

Contents associated with the energy storage components 13 and 23 may beapplied to the battery of the robot cleaner and the battery of themovable power supply as-is. That is, when the high-cost periodcorresponds to an allowable period, the battery may be charged. At thispoint, the battery may be charged regardless of whether charging of thebattery is required, or the battery may be charged only when charging ofthe battery is required. However, when the low-cost period correspondsto an unallowable period, the battery may not be charged.

As another example, when a user selects a release button that isincluded in the robot cleaner or the movable power supply while chargingis being performed at the low-cost period, charging may not be performed(where a charging amount per unit time of the battery may be maintainedidentically to a period previous to the low-cost period). Alternatively,charging of the battery may not be performed or a charging amount (i.e.,a charging amount per unit time) may decrease at a portion of thelow-cost period. However, the total charging amount (which is anewly-charged amount) of the battery or total usage costs necessarycharging may increase at the entire low-cost period, a period from startof charging to full charging or a period to a set time.

In the specification, it has been described above that charging isperformed in a state where charging of the battery is not performed,but, when the low-cost period is recognized while charging of thebattery is being performed, it can be understood that the chargingamount of the battery (for example, a charging amount per unit time)increases, decreases or is maintained.

Although embodiments have been described with reference to a number ofillustrative embodiments thereof, it should be understood that numerousother modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled inthe art that will fall within the spirit and scope of the principles ofthis disclosure.

More particularly, various variations and modifications are possible inthe component parts and/or arrangements of the subject combinationarrangement within the scope of the disclosure, the drawings and theappended claims. In addition to variations and modifications in thecomponent parts and/or arrangements, alternative uses will also beapparent to those skilled in the art.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A movable component for a network system which communicates with another component, the movable component comprising: a body comprising a wheel to move; a motor to drive the wheel; a battery to supply a power to at least the motor; a communication unit to communicate with another component, the communication unit to receive information related to energy; and a control unit to receive the information related to the energy from the communication unit, wherein the control unit determines whether to charge the battery based on the information related to energy, wherein when the information related to energy indicates a low-cost energy period, the control unit causes a charging amount per unit time of the battery to increase during at least a portion of the low-cost energy period.
 2. A movable component for a network system which communicates with another component, the movable component comprising: a body comprising a wheel to move; a motor to drive the wheel; a battery to supply a power to at least the motor; a communication unit to communicate with another component, the communication unit to receive information related to energy; and a control unit to receive the information related to the energy from the communication unit, wherein the control unit determines whether to charge the battery based on the information related to energy, wherein when the information related to energy indicates a low-cost energy period, the control unit causes a charging amount per unit time of the battery to decrease or to be maintained during at least a portion of the low-cost energy period.
 3. The movable component according to claim 2, wherein total usage cost expended in charging of the battery or total charged amount of the battery increases at the entire low-cost energy period.
 4. A movable component for a network system which communicates with another component, the movable component comprising: a body comprising a wheel to move; a motor to drive the wheel; a battery to supply a power to at least the motor; a communication unit to communicate with another component, the communication unit to receive information related to energy; and a control unit to receive the information related to the energy from the communication unit, wherein the control unit determines whether to charge the battery based on the information related to energy, wherein when the information related to energy indicates a low-cost energy period, the control unit causes a charging amount per unit time of the battery to be maintained during at least a portion of the low-cost energy period.
 5. The movable component according to claim 4, wherein: when charging of the battery is not yet performed, charging of the battery is not continuously performed, and when charging of the battery is being performed, the charging amount per unit time of the battery is maintained.
 6. The movable component according to claim 4, wherein total usage cost expended in charging of the battery or total charged amount of the battery increases at the entire low-cost energy period.
 7. The movable component according to claim 4, wherein when the low-cost energy period corresponds to an unallowable period, the charging amount per unit time of the battery is maintained.
 8. The movable component according to claim 1, further comprising a release button, wherein: when the information related to energy indicates a low-cost period, the control unit causes a charging amount per unit time of the battery to increase during at least a portion of the low-cost energy period, and when a release button is used, the control unit causes the charging amount per unit time of the battery to be maintained identically to a period previous to the low-cost energy period.
 9. The movable component according to claim 1, wherein the information related to energy comprises information to notify whether to charge the battery indicating a low-cost energy period.
 10. The movable component according to claim 9, wherein when the control unit receives a charging command the control unit performs charging of the battery.
 11. The movable component according to claim 9, wherein when the control unit does not receive a charging command within a certain time, whether to charge the battery is determined according to remaining charged amount of the battery.
 12. The movable component according to claim 1, wherein control unit charges the battery using a power from an other component.
 13. The movable component according to claim 1, wherein control unit supplies a power from the battery to the other component.
 14. The movable component according to claim 13, wherein the other component is an energy consumption component which consumes energy.
 15. The movable component according to claim 1, wherein when the information related to energy indicates a low-cost energy period, the control unit causing the motor to drive the wheel to a battery charging component to charge the battery.
 16. The movable component according to claim 1, wherein when the information related to energy indicates a low-cost energy period, the control unit determines whether the battery needs to be charged, and if the control unit determines that the battery needs to be charged, the control unit causing the motor to drive the wheel to a battery charging component to charge the battery.
 17. The movable component according to claim 1, wherein when the information related to energy indicates a high-cost energy period and the control unit determines that the battery needs to be charged, the control unit causing the movable component to stop operation and not charging the battery.
 18. The movable component according to claim 1, wherein when the information related to energy indicates a high-cost energy period, the control unit causing the motor to drive the wheel to an energy consumption component to supply a power to the energy consumption component.
 19. The movable component according to claim 18, wherein the control unit determines which energy consumption component to supply the power among the plurality of energy consumption components based on a priority of the energy consumption components. 